The 2022-2023 budget is available as a pdf file in a condensed version (2 pages).

(A pdf reader is required to view the file. Download the free Adobe Reader at http://get.adobe.com/reader.)

The 2021-2022 budget is available as a pdf file in a condensed version (2 pages).

(A pdf reader is required to view the file. Download the free Adobe Reader at http://get.adobe.com/reader.)

Chippewa Township
2022 Mosquito Control Program

Chippewa Township has contracted APM Mosquito Control (APM) to continue the mosquito control program for the 2022 season. APM specializes in municipal and community-wide mosquito management programs. APM was established in 1986 and has over 30 years of experience in integrated mosquito management. APM's main office is located in Armada, Michigan. This brochure is being provided to the community as insight into APM’s approach for an effective integrated mosquito control program for Chippewa Township property owners and residents. This information also explains how we as property owners and residents can assist in this plan.

INTEGRATED MOSQUITO MANAGEMENT

This is a process, consisting of the balanced use of environmentally compatible and economically feasible products, to reduce mosquito populations to a tolerable level. APM develops and implements comprehensive integrated mosquito control programs. The basis of every APM control program is biological larval control. All potential mosquito larval habitats are surveyed, cataloged and mapped. Routine larval surveys are then scheduled to determine where larvae are developing and what actions need to be taken to control them. Adult mosquito populations are also sampled using a network of light traps. These surveillance activities allow APM to plan and implement larval and adult mosquito control applications in a manner consistent with Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) protocols.

The primary objective of IMM is to prevent the development of mosquito larvae by using biological methods, thus minimizing the need to “fog” for adult mosquitoes. The use of ULV (ultra-low volume) fogging gives good but only temporary results under acceptable weather conditions and is not generally cost effective as a sole means of control. Biological larval control methods take advantage of natural enemies to reduce mosquito populations. Natural enemies fall into 3 categories: those that prey on mosquitoes; parasitize them; or act against their hormonal system. APM uses biological control in all three areas.

Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis var. israeliensis) is a naturally occurring spore and crystal forming soil bacteria. Bti’s active ingredient has been shown to be toxic only to mosquitoes, black flies and closely related species, with no toxic effects on other aquatic organisms. A Bti application in late April to lowland/woodland areas will be the initial step of the villages integrated mosquito control program. Mosquito control activities are limited to specific political boundaries, but unfortunately adult mosquitoes don’t obey lines on a map. Thus any program that hopes to have effective control must contend with local larval development and invading migratory adults.

Nature has provided no successful alternative to chemical insecticides for controlling adult mosquitoes. The controlled application of ULV insecticides using modern technology and equipment can effectively reduce adult mosquitoes utilizing extremely small amounts of insecticide. Kontrol 4+4 or Biomist 4+4 is applied via truck and or off road vehicle-mounted equipment. Biomist 4+4 and Kontrol 4+4 are man-made permethrin based insecticides. These products offer excellent effectiveness against adult mosquitoes, low mammalian toxicity, low odor, and rapid biodegradability.

THE MOSQUITO STORY

Mosquitoes (Order Diptera, Family Culicidae) are some of the most adaptable and successful insects on earth and are found in some extraordinary places. Virtually any natural or man-made collection of water can support mosquito production.

Mosquitoes can be distinguished easily from other flies by the fact that they have both a long, piercing proboscis and scales on the veins of their wings. About 60 species are found in Michigan. Only a few of these are important as carriers of disease, but many others are significant nuisances. The two most common mosquito species found in Michigan are Aedes vexans and Culex pipiens. Aedes vexans is known as the floodwater mosquito because it lays its eggs on dry-ground in flood prone areas. Culex pipiens is an important disease vector, known to spread St. Louis Encephalitis, West Nile Virus and other encephalitis diseases.

THE MOSQUITO LIFE CYCLE

All mosquito species have two things in common: they must have water for their early stages; and they all undergo the same four-stage life cycle — egg, larva, pupa and adult. Mosquito eggs are laid individually or in clusters and are deposited either on the water surface or in flood prone areas. Most mosquito species will over- winter in the egg stage. If eggs are laid out of water, embryos may lay dormant for several years. Once the egg hatches, the larval stage begins. The larvae of most mosquito species hang suspended at the water surface using an air tube to breathe. The larvae feed on aquatic organisms near the surface. As a defense mechanism, the larvae can dive deeper into the water by swimming in a characteristic “S” motion. Larvae grow quickly and outgrow their exterior covering. Larvae molt four times. Larval stages last between 5 and 14 days depending on temperature and food availability. No feeding occurs in the pupal stage that lasts from 1 ½ to 4 days, after which the pupal skin splits along the back allowing the newly formed adult to slowly emerge and rest on the water surface. Male mosquitoes will emerge first and linger near the breeding site waiting for the females. Mating occurs quickly after emergence due to high mortality. As much as 30% of the adult population can die per day. The female compensates for this by laying large numbers of eggs, usually about 300. Males live about 7 days and feed on plant nectars. Females live about 6 weeks and must take a blood meal to nourish her eggs. She uses carbon dioxide, exhaled chemicals, and temperature patterns to locate her victims. The average female’s flight range is between 1 and 10 miles, but some species have been shown to travel up to 40 miles. After each blood meal, the female will oviposit her eggs, completing the life cycle. Several oviposits per female are possible.

MOSQUITOES AND PUBLIC HEALTH

Mosquitoes can spread disease only when they bite. During feeding, the female pierces her victim’s skin with her proboscis, injects her saliva, which contains an anti-coagulant and then sucks the victim’s blood in. If the victim’s blood contains disease-causing organisms, the mosquito ingests them too. These organisms are then maintained within the mosquito and eventually may be injected into another victim. In this way, a mosquito can spread disease from animal to animal, animal to man, or even person-to-person. In the U. S., there are about six mosquito-borne viruses that are capable of causing acute infections of the central nervous system. Most often this type of infection causes brain and central nervous system inflammation or encephalitis. The most common types found in our area are West Nile Virus (WNV), St. Louis Encephalitis (SLE) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The only common parasite transmitted by mosquitoes is Dog Heart worm. Transmission of Dog Heart worm occurs only through the bite of an infected mosquito and involves a complicated transmission cycle. Mosquitoes and other insects do not transmit HIV or cause AIDS.

Controlling Mosquitoes

Standing water means mosquitoes. Any standing, stagnant water that remains for 7 to 10 days after a rain can, and usually will, produce mosquitoes.

Empty all water holding containers in your yard on a regular basis, at least once a week. Tires, children’s wading pools, rain barrels, buckets, plant pots, birdbaths, and stored boats are common examples of mosquito breeding sites around the yard.

Leaves and other debris should be removed from eaves troughs and down spouts.

Ditches and retention basins must be kept free of vegetation and debris to promote rapid drainage.

Pond edges should be kept clean of cattails and other aquatic vegetation. This is where mosquito larvae develop and mature.

To reduce the number of adult mosquitoes in your yard, keep your yard mowed as short as is practical. Keep all ornamental shrubs and bushes trimmed and pruned to allow airflow and light to penetrate. This is where adult mosquitoes hide during the day

Good housekeeping is encouraged. Screens on windows and doors should be well maintained to prevent mosquitoes from entering homes, structures as mosquitoes seek out cooler and shaded areas for resting.

HOW THE PROGRAM WILL WORK

Initial spring larvicide application of Vectobac G (bti) to Lowland/woodland wet areas during mid April to mid May.

The mapping and surveying of mosquito breeding sites in Chippewa Township and development of historical data.  161 breeding sites were mapped in 2015 and will breed at varying times of the year. The larviciding of these sites when found breeding with Vectobac G (bti) or Vectolex FG (Bs).  This will be an ongoing process.

The placement of dry ice baited CDC traps and New Jersey Light traps for adult mosquito monitoring and disease testing.

Residents are encouraged to call the toll free number (877) 276-4714 when noticing excessive adult mosquito populations and or have standing water in their immediate area.

A weekly nighttime ULV application to targeted areas of the township from a truck mounted sprayer. This application is dependent on traps thresholds exceeding 20 females and weather conditions meeting the following criteria. Winds must be less than 10 mph. Temperature must be above 55*F and not raining at time of application. ULV normally occurs between Memorial Day through Labor Day as needed.

Description of Materials being used for mosquito abatement

Kontrol 4+4 (4.6% permethrin, 4.6% technical piperonyl butoxide)

Biomist 4+4 (4% permethrin, 4% technical piperonyl butoxide)

Vectobac G / CG (2%bacillus thuringiensis israelensis)

Vectolex CG (7.5 % bacillus sphaericus)

Temp0 10WP (10%Cyfluthrin)

PUBLIC NOTICES

Public notice announcing the mosquito control program will be published in the local newspaper and also be posted at various locations throughout the township. We request that all property owners who are renting or leasing their properties to notify their tenants either by passing this information on to them or advising them that this information is available at Chippewa Township office.

Those who believe that their mosquito population is excessive are to Contact APM at (989) 426-2420 or their toll free number for an onsite inspection and additional treatment if the need is necessary and weather conditions permit. APM’s toll free number is (877) 276-4714

Those residents that would like to be notified before mosquito control applications are performed may request they be notified by calling APM at our local number. (989) 426-2420.

Notice: Property owners and residents who do not wish to be treated by this method of mosquito control are to fill out the letter of objection (included with this information) and submit it to Chippewa Township, 11084 E. Pickard Rd., Mount Pleasant, MI  48858. These properties will be identified as non-treatment areas.

The Mosquito control contractor for 2022 is: APM Mosquito Control, 21240 34 Mile Rd., Armada Michigan 48005. Our toll free number is 1-877 276-4714 

 ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___  ___ __

This is a letter of objection. The property owners or residents of Chippewa Township who prefer that their properties NOT be treated for Mosquito control are to notify Chippewa Township as soon as possible using this form with the required information filled out. These notices will be forwarded to APM Mosquito Control so they can create a buffer and exclude your property from being treated.

We, the following, DO NOT want our property treated for mosquito control in 2022

Name_______________________________________________________

Property Description____________________________________________

Property address_______________________________________________

Phone Number________________________________________________

Click here to download a pdf file of the letter of objection or here to download a pdf of this webpage.

Petition to Board of Review form

Board of Review FAQ

Property Tax and Local Government Forms and Instructions: Individual Taxpayer Forms

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
November 08, 2021 Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Monica Richer, Rod Reid, Bill Miller (acting chair), Matt Flegel.
Absent: Susan Gates, Bob Wetherbee, Michelle Quakenbush.

Pledge of Allegiance. 

MINUTES APPROVAL:

Minutes of November 2021. Motion by Reid, second by Flegel; all in favor; motion carried .

Correspondence:

ZA--letter from cell tower provider south of M-20 on Wise Road. Will be conducting renovations within the fenced in area. This is a permitted tower.

Handout from ZA--resident Valarie Stark, Happy Feet Childcare, 3731 S Shepherd Rd, Mt Pleasant, request increase the number of children from six to twelve (6-12). State required sign off from township. Discussion by board. Motion stated: residents must provide a 12x18 turnaround (gravel, cement, or asphalt). NO ONE is allowed to back out onto Shepherd Rd. Ms Stark stated she would comply and put in a 12x18 turnaround. Motion made by Flegel, second by Reid. Roll call vote--all in favor. Motion carried.

Audience Participation:

None.

Old Business: 

Blight officer update: could be installed as early as January 03, 2022 township board meeting.

New Business: 

Township board asked the planning commission to look at storage units. Presently permitted in industrial only. Lengthy discussion on possible storage units in other zoning classes. ZA will prepare something for board to review for January meeting.

Township board authorized for a lawyer specializing in municipal work, Chris Patterson, tentatively to attend January 03, 2022. Board is encouraged to attend.

Adjournment:

8:30.pm. Motion by Reid, second by Flegel.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Next regularly scheduled meeting: January 10, 2022, 7:00pm.

Respectfully Electronically Submitted,
Monica Richer,
Recording Secretary

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

December 6, 2021

Clerk Ash called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Fran Ash, Kathy VanderKolk, Michelle Quakenbush
Absent: Rob Smith, Gail Huber

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to approve meeting minutes of November 1, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to approve the treasurer’s report of Dec. 6, 2021 balance of $2,435,126.09 and overall balance of $2,607,246.46.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, VanderKolk, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

No comments.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER
ZA Bebee stated he and Supervisor Smith have a tentative date of December 9th to meet with Trevor Reid regarding the blight officer position.

POLICIES
Tabled until the January meeting.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE
ZA Bebee gave an update.

A group of residents has formed a Foster Rd. group complaining about the odor of marijuana growing in the area.
Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, for ZA Bebee to contact a municipal Lansing attorney from FSBR to come to the January meeting to inform the board on marijuana laws and pay an initial consultation fee up to $1000.00.
Roll call vote—Yes: VanderKolk, Ash, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ZA Bebee stated he has received requests to consider commercial zoning to allow for self-storage business. The current ordinance allows them only in industrial zoning areas and there is not much available in industrial zones.
Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Quakenbush, to direct the Planning Commission to revise current ordinance to include storage units in commercial zoning due to lack of availability in industrial zoning.
Motion carried.

PC TERMS
Motion by Ash, supported by VanderKolk, to renew Rod Reid and Robert Wetherbee to three-year terms on the Planning Commission.
Motion carried.

2022 MEETING CALENDAR
Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Quakenbush, to approve the 2022 meeting calendar and include the Board of Review dates.
Motion carried.

TOWNSHIP SHARE OF THE FIRE DEPT. BUDGET & SPECIAL EQUIPMENT
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to pay Chippewa Township’s share of the Shepherd Tri-Township Fire Department budget at a cost of $75,207.25 and $25,000.00 for the equipment fund.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, VanderKolk, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to amend budget line item fire protection operating expense $27,000.00.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Quakenbush, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: VanderKolk, Quakenbush, Ash. No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Ash supported by VanderKolk to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:05 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

November 1, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Fran Ash, Kathy VanderKolk, Michelle Quakenbush
Absent: Gail Huber

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to approve meeting minutes of October 4, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to approve the treasurer’s report of Nov. 1, 2021 available balance of $2,600,142.27and overall balance of. $2,772,243.40.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Smith, VanderKolk, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

Public comment was held.

Deputy Fire Chief, Ben Bryant, was in attendance and gave the board the fire protection costs.
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to pay $27,683.19 for Chippewa Township’s share of Shepherd Tri-Twp Fire Dept. labor costs.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Quakenbush, VanderKolk, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER

ZA Bebee met with Trevor Reid, who is interested in the blight officer position, to discuss the Code Enforcement position and its duties. There are several items that need to be discussed by the township board: wages, vehicle signage, reimbursement, etc. Attorney Bloem will go over the current blight ordinance to see if it needs revised.

POLICIES
Attorney Bloem will make modifications to the policies and send them to the clerk and treasurer.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE
ZA Bebee gave an update.

STOVAK LAND SPLIT
Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Ash, to approve Stovak land split.
Motion carried.

ASSESSOR RESIGNATION
Assessor, Brad Beach, is resigning his position as of December 31st. Tina Braman was in attendance at the meeting. She has worked with Beach for several years. She is a Level 3 MAAO.
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to hire Tina Braman as the Chippewa Township Assessor at an annual salary of $36,000.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Ash, Smith, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

BUDGET AMENDMENTS
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to amend the following 2021-2022 budget line items:

CPA $1500.00,
Treasurer per diem $1000.00,
Treasurer bond $500.00,
Election wages $2500.00,
Election office supplies $100.00,
Election postage $450.00,
Road expense $150,000.00,
Cemetery gas and fuel $200.00.

Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Smith, VanderKolk, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Smith, VanderKolk, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Huber, supported by Ash, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:06 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
November 08, 2021 Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Susan Gates (Chair), Monica Richer, Rod Reid, Bill Miller, Michelle Quakenbush, Bob Wetherbee.
Absent: Matt Flegel, ZA Bebee.

Pledge of Allegiance. 

MINUTES APPROVAL:

Minutes of October 11, 2021. Motion by Reid, second by Quakenbush; all in favor; motion carried .

Correspondence:

None.

Audience Participation:

None.

Old Business: 

• Update on blight officer position. Meeting to take place with lawyer and supervisor.
• Lengthy review and discussion on wind ordinance.

New Business: 

None.

Adjournment:

8:30.pm. Motion by Quakenbush, second by Reid.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Next regularly scheduled meeting: December 13, 2021, 7:00pm.

Respectfully Electronically Submitted,
Monica Richer,
Recording Secretary

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
October 11, 2021 Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Susan Gates (Chair), Monica Richer, Rod Reid, Bill Miller, ZA Bebee, Matt Flegel, Michelle Quakenbush.
Absent: Bob Wetherbee.

Pledge of Allegiance. 

MINUTES APPROVAL:

Minutes of September 13, 2021. Motion by Reid, second by Miller; all in favor; motion carried .

Correspondence:

ZA has a request for a copy of an approved site plan.

Audience Participation:

None.

Old Business: 

• Update on blight officer position. Supervisor Smith and Attorney Bloem will meet this month and ZA will have a report for the next meeting.
• Lengthy discussion on marijauana growing. ZA will distribute an ordinance from another township for the board to review.
• Lengthy discussion on wind ordinance.

New Business: 

None.

Adjournment:

8:00.pm. Motion by Quakenbush, second by Flegel.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Next regularly scheduled meeting: November 08, 2021, 7:00pm.

Respectfully Electronically Submitted,
Monica Richer,
Recording Secretary

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
July 12, 2021 Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Susan Gates (Chair), Monica Richer, Rod Reid, Bob Wetherbee, Bill Miller, Tim Bebee.
Absent: Matt Flegel, Michelle Quakenbush.

Pledge of Allegiance. 

MINUTES APPROVAL:

Minutes approval of June 14, 2021. Motion made by Reid, second by Miller.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Correspondence:

Attorney Bloem is putting together a letter describing the duties of the Code Enforcement Agent. We have a candidate interested in this job.

Lawsuit with Clark has been dismissed without prejudice (he withdrew). However, the township is still going forward.

Audience Participation:

Robert Wimer, 1939 S Wise Rd, Mt Pleasant, is leasing property to Luke Goenner, located on M-20 just west of Wise Road. A semi-trailer is placed on this property. It is in violation of the right-of-way. Chair Gates informed him he was also in violation of Ordinance 5.04 and 5.04a. The semi-trailer was considered a billboard. Both ZA Bebee and Chair Gates informed him he is in violation of conducting a business at this location without proper zoning and he can request a rezone to commercial and then put up a sign within the guidelines.

8457 E Broadway, Mt Pleasant. Site plan review for proposed pond excavation. Jordan Briggs, 1604 E High, project manager (representing Goenner Landscaping), spoke describing risks as to why the soil to be disposed of cannot be put behind the pipeline and on the remaining property. Mr Briggs requests to remove approximately 10,000 yds of sand for this dig. Mr Briggs assured the board he would maintain the excess dirt from the road daily, as well as the building inspector will be in contact with Mr Briggs.

Discussion and motion to approve site plan for pond excavation made by Reid, second by Wetherbee.
Roll call vote: Wetherbee yes, Gates yes, Richer yes, Reid yes, Miller yes.
Motion carried.

Old Business: 

Ordinances went to township board; adult foster care and blight approved. Ponds wording to be changed by planning commission. Campgrounds gone to township board for approval.

Adjournment: 8:40 pm Motion made by Richer, second by Reid.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Next regularly scheduled meeting: August 09, 2021 at 7:00 pm.

Respectfully ElectronicallySubmitted ,

Monica Richer,
Recording Secretary

Planning Commission

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
April 2, 2021 Special Meeting Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Bob Wetherbee, Michelle Quakenbush, Susan Gates (Chair), Rod Reid (acting Secretary), Bill Miller, Tim Bebee (Zoning Administrator).
Absent: Matt Flegel and Monica Richer

Pledge of Allegiance. 

Audience Participation: 

Brandon Haas was present for a site plan review of his Home Occupation request. The address is: 8237 E. Chippewa Trail and the parcel number is: 02-060-00-004-00.

A packet, with all the needed details, was passed out to everyone. It was stated by ZA Bebee that the packet and the meeting advertisement was incorrect. It is not a special use meeting and would not have to have been sent to nearby residents. No residents were present or sent any correspondence, so that would indicate there is no opposition. Mr. Haas was informed that he would only owe $50 for this Site Plan meeting, with the correction of the meeting type.

This Gunsmith Shop is a permitted use, as a home occupation, in the area in which he lives. His stated hours of business are: T-F, 10AM-4PM & Sat, 10AM-12PM. His business is by appointment only and, with these regulations, no addition parking is needed. He will follow all Fed. & State laws and has ATF licensing.

Board Questions or Comments: None

Motion to approve the site plan by Michelle (Quakenbush) and second by Rod (Reid).
By roll call vote, all were in favor, so motion carried.

The board was informed that there are many ordinances that need to be worked on and we have a controversial proposal for our next regular meeting.

The next regular meeting will be on April 12, 2021 at 7PM. This meeting will be, in person, at the township hall.

Motion to adjourn 7:32 pm made by Bob (Wetherbee) and second by Bill (Miller).

All in favor.
Motion carried. 

Respectfully Submitted Electronically,
Rod Reid

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
April 12, 2021 Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Bob Wetherbee, Matt Flegel, Michelle Quakenbush, Susan Gates (Chair), Rod Reid (Acting Secretary), ZA Tim Bebee (Zoing Administrator), Gordon Bloem (Twp Attorney).

Absent: Monica Richer, Bill Miller.

Pledge of Allegiance. 

Audience Participation: 

No audience participation outside of the private road review for the Clarks (Dave and Lucinda), who were present. The property is located on Wing Rd, Section 35.

Old Business: 

Tim B. introduced the lengthy proposed private road review packet of maps, drains, roads, description of what was proposed, what had already been planned by the engineers, how it would conform to the Land Division Ordinance and what would need to be done to fit into our Chippewa Township Ordinances. The road is provided for access to parcels to make them into legal parcels.

There were no audience comments, but the Clarks (who reside at 6870 E. Airport Rd, Mt. Pleasant) explained that they wanted to improve on the land her mother had owned and provide for some retirement income. They plan on some double wide trailers and a single wide on the six parcels of land.

After a short clarification of the private road packet review, the board had no more questions or comments. Michelle made a motion to approve the private road proposal with the stipulations below:

1. The structure, on parcel #2 (02-035-40-002-00), must be moved to no closer than 10 feet from the rear (southern) lot line to comply with rear yard set-back.
2. The approval of the private roadway by the Township does not guarantee approval from other agencies.
3. Prior to installation of any residential structure and before zoning permits for the new building lots will be issued, the following will need to be completed:

1. Execute the Road Maintenance Agreement prepared by the township attorney.
2. Execute the County Drain Relocation agreement with the Isabella County Drain Commissioner and provide any bonding required by the same.
3. As part of the private road construction, the new county drain tile must be installed and accepted by the Drain Commissioner.
4. Must obtain final approval from the Isabella County Road Commission and provide any bonding required by the same.
5. Complete parcel divisions with the Chippewa Township Assessor.
6. The engineering firm (Lapham Associates) must sign-off that all road and drainage is installed as approved plans dictate.

No Further discussion.

Matt offered support of the motion to approve. With a roll call vote, all were in favor of the motion.

The Township Board has asked the Planning Commission (P.C.) to review the many ordinance issues and changes that have been discussed over the last many months, but not been brought to the twp. board or put before a public hearing. Packets were handed out for the board to look at, one last time, before they are proposed as changes to ordinances. Packets covered issues such as campgrounds, adult foster care homes, the blight ordinance and ponds, mining and soil removal. The members of the P.C. are to read through these and call Tim with questions and comments.

It was decided to read out loud through the campground packet, from agricultural zones, together as a group. As things were edited by the group, Tim took notes and will send changes to the members of the P.C. for final review and accuracy. Once this is done, the final draft will be sent to the township lawyer for correct wording.

After completing these issues, we will review wind and solar ordinances at future meetings.

Motion to adjourn 9:05 pm made by Bob (Wetherbee) and support from Matt (Flegel).
All in favor.
Motion carried. 

Next regularly scheduled meeting May 10, 2021, at 7:00 pm.

Respectfully Submitted Electronically,
Rod Reid

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

October 4, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Fran Ash, Kathy VanderKolk, Gail Huber, Michelle Quakenbush.

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to approve meeting minutes of September 7, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Ash, to approve the treasurer’s report of Oct.4, 2021 balance of $2,312,942.17 and overall balance of $2,485,015.02.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Huber, Smith, VanderKolk, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

Public comment was held.

Chuck Mullins from APM Mosquito Control gave the board an update and a proposal for the 2022 season at a cost of $76,796.25.
Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to approve the APM proposal for 2022 for $76,796.25.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, VanderKolk, Huber, Quakenbush, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER
Attorney Bloem will meet with Trevor Reid who is interested in the blight officer position. Clerk Ash received a quote from BHS Insurance, the township’s insurance carrier, for law enforcement coverage. The cost is $655.00/year for $1,000,000.00 limit of liability.

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Huber, to approve liability insurance for the blight officer at a cost of $655.00 year for $1,000,000.00 limit of liability.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Smith, Quakenbush, Huber, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

POLICIES
Attorney Bloem will look into the policies.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE
ZA Bebee was absent.

CONSUMERS ENERGY FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
The current agreement with Consumers Energy expires February 2022.
Motion by Ash, supported by VanderKolk, to approve the renewal of the Consumers Energy Gas and/or Electric Franchise Ordinance #2021-2.
Roll call vote—Yes: VanderKolk, Ash, Smith, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PA116
Laurie Cary requested partial termination of PA116. Over ten years ago the house was separated from the farmland at 6345 E. Deerfield Rd. They were unaware it was in the PA116 program. Now after the house has been sold several times it has come up on a title search. She is asking the 1.56 acre parcel the house is on be released from the program.
Motion by Ash, supported by VanderKolk, for a partial termination of the PA116 on parcel #2-030-30-003-03.
Motion carried.

HALL WATER PUMP
Clerk Ash stated the water at the hall failed on a Saturday during a rental for a fundraiser. She called Sawade Drilling and they determined a new water pump and control box was needed. Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to pay Sawade Drilling $3477.25 for labor, water pump and control box.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Quakenbush, Smith, Huber, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to amend the budget for township offices: capital improvement $5000.00.
Roll call vote—Yes: VanderKolk, Smith, Huber, Quakenbush, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

SCHOOL ELECTION WORKERS
Motion by Ash, supported by Huber, to hire five election inspectors for the Special Election on November 2, 2021.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Qukenbush, Ash, Huber, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Smith, VanderKolk, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Huber, supported by Ash, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:06 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
September 13, 2021 Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Susan Gates (Chair), Monica Richer, Bob Wetherbee, Rod Reid, Bill Miller.
Absent: Matt Flegel, Michelle Quakenbush, ZA Bebee.

Pledge of Allegiance. 

MINUTES APPROVAL:

Minutes August 09, 2021, unanimously approved. Motion by Reid, second by Wetherbee.

Correspondence:

None.

Audience Participation:

None.

Old Business: 

Working out the details of the Blight Officer position.

Mr Miller recently had a conversation with the State because the State is requiring him to put in a larger sanitation system. He inquired whether our Township had future plans for sewer. After much discussion, Chair Gates referred him to the Township Board.

New Business: 

Next meeting solar and wind review.

Adjournment:

7:50.pm. Motion by Richer, second by Miller.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Next regularly scheduled meeting: October 11, 2021, 7:00pm.

Respectfully Submitted,
Monica Richer,
Recording Secretary

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

September 7, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Fran Ash, Kathy VanderKolk, Gail Huber, Michelle Quakenbush.

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Huber, supported by VanderKolk, to approve meeting minutes of August 2, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion, by Ash, supported by Huber, to approve the treasurer’s report of Sept. 7, 2021 balance of $2,393,579.95 and overall balance of $2,565,623.57.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Huber, Smith, VanderKolk, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

No comment.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER

Supervisor Smith stated he will set up a meeting with attorney Bloem to interview Trevor Reid. ZA Bebee, supervisor Smith and attorney Bloem will write up a job description for the blight officer.

Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Quakenbush, to adopt Chippewa Township Enforcement Officer Ordinance 2021-1.
Roll call vote—Yes: Huber, Smith, Quakenbush, Ash, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

POLICIES
Tabled due to absence of attorney Bloem.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE

ZA Bebee was absent.

BUDGET AMENDMENTS
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to amend the budget for clerk software $6000.00 due to new software.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Smith, Quakenbush, Huber, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

Motion by Ash, supported by Huber, to amend the budget for township offices capital improvement by $10,000.00 due to phone system replacement.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, VanderKolk, Quakenbush, Huber, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ZBA ALTERNATE
Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to appoint Brian Schantz to the ZBA as an alternate with a term ending January 1, 2023.
Motion carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Smith, VanderKolk, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Huber, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:02 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
August 09, 2021 Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Susan Gates (Chair), Monica Richer, Rod Reid, Bob Wetherbee, Matt Flegel, Michelle Quakenbush, Bill Miller, Tim Bebee.

Pledge of Allegiance. 

MINUTES APPROVAL:

Reid motion to accept, Wetherbee second, minutes from July 12, 2021.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Correspondence:

None.

Audience Participation:

Under the suggestion of the ZA, Brian Schantz, 8200 Leona Dr, Mt Pleasant, introduced himself to the board. He is willing to volunteer in any capacity. He is interested in local government.

Old Business: 

ZA will email Township Board for guidance on verbiage changes on ordinances.

Blight officer position will be filled soon.

New Business: 

Board will work on wind and solar ordinances for next meeting, September 13, 2021.

Tri-board meeting is August 16 at 7:00 pm.

Adjournment:

8:15 pm Motion made by Quakenbush, second by Miller.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Next regularly scheduled meeting: September 13, 2021 at 7:00 pm.

Respectfully Submitted Electronically,
Monica Richer,
Recording Secretary

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

August 2, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Fran Ash, Kathy VanderKolk, Gail Huber, Michelle Quakenbush.

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to approve meeting minutes of July 5, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion, by Ash, supported by Huber, to approve the treasurer’s report of August 2, 2021 balance of $2,329,455.58 and overall balance of $2,501,469.98.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Huber, Smith, VanderKolk, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

Public comment was held.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER

Attorney Bloem was absent but has met with the Isabella County Magistrate regarding giving authority to the blight officer.

POLICIES

Tabled due to absence of attorney Bloem.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE

ZA Bebee gave an update.

PHONE SYSTEM

Lightning hit the phone lines and phone system in June. Frontier had to repair and replace the phone system. The cost for replacement with a four-year warranty is $11,322.66 and includes lightning protection. The township’s insurance paid $6516.74. There may be an additional $300 charge for a dual network interface card.
Motion by Ash, supported Huber, to pay Frontier $5300.00 for new phone system.
Roll call vote—Yes: Huber, Smith, Ash, VanderKolk, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

CONSUMERS ENERGY STREETLIGHT RESOLUTION

Consumers Energy is replacing the streetlights with LED lighting at the corner of Leaton and Broadway and needs a resolution for the change. There is no cost to the township.
Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Quakenbush, to approve the change in the standard lighting contract with Consumers Energy at no cost to the township.
Motion carried.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST POLICY

Supervisor Smith and Treasurer VanderKolk have filed for ARPA funds and a Federal Procurement Conflict of Interest Policy is required to acquire the funds.
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to adopt the Chippewa Township Federal Procurement Conflict of Interest Policy.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, VanderKolk, Huber, Quakenbush, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Smith, VanderKolk, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

OTHER

Treasurer VanderKolk stated that she received an email from the Treasurer of the City of Mt Pleasant to see if we would like to participate with them and other townships to strike off delinquent personal property taxes from 2009-2015. The city attorney is working on it.
Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Ash, to strike off delinquent personal property taxes from 2009-2015.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, VanderKolk, Ash, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Quakenbush, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 7:48 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

July 5, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Fran Ash, Kathy VanderKolk, Gail Huber, Michelle Quakenbush.

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Huber, to approve meeting minutes of June 7, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion by Ash, supported by Huber, to approve the treasurer’s report of July 5, 2021 balance of $2,280,201.65 and overall balance of $2,452,187.78.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Huber, Smith, VanderKolk, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

No comments.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER
Supervisor Smith and ZA Bebee met with the township attorney. The board was given a copy of a letter drafted by attorney Bloem outlining blight enforcement procedures.
Trevor Reid was in attendance. He is a former police officer and is interested in the blight officer position. Supervisor Smith will meet with him.

CYBER INSURANCE
Clerk Ash applied for cyber insurance through Amwins. Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Huber, to approve the cyber insurance policy proposal for an approximate cost of $2239.98.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, VanderKolk, Smith, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

POLICIES
Tabled due to absence of attorney Bloem.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE
ZA Bebee was absent.
Motion by Smith, supported by VanderKolk, to send the pond ordinance to the Planning Commission for revision and clarification (it references building official, building department and permits filed with township clerk) and terminology to be consistent with the Master Plan.
Motion carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, VanderKolk, Huber, Ash, Quakenbush. No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ELECTION WORKERS

Motion by Ash, supported by VanderKolk, to hire five election inspectors for the August 3rd Special Election.
Roll call vote—Yes: Huber, Quakenbush, Smith, VanderKolk, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADULT CLASSIFICATION

Motion by Smith, supported by VanderKolk, to send definitions for adult classification to the Planning Commission with no comments or changes.
Motion carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Huber, supported by Ash, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 7:47 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
June 14, 2021 Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Bob Wetherbee, Michelle Quakenbush, Susan Gates (Chair), Monica Richer, Rod Reid, Bill Miller.
Absent: Matt Flegel.

Pledge of Allegiance. 

MINUTES APPROVAL:

Reid motion to accept, Quakenbush second, minutes from May 10, 2021.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Audience Participation: None.

Correspondence:

ZA had three letters of correspondence. Modular Home request; Solar Panel request; copy of denial letter from attorney Bloem, sent to request for medical marijuana grower.

Old Business: 

None.

New Business: 

ZA handout, map publication of pond dig. Inquiring request to remove excess sand dredged from property. ZA will report back to party what will be required for party to do that.

Ordinances being sent to Township Board for review to be approved:

Adult Foster Care
Blight
Swimming Pools
Campground, Agriculture.

Lengthy discussion on Zoning Compliance Officer.

Adjournment: 8:05 pm Motion made by Reid, second by Richer.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Next regularly scheduled meeting: July 10, 2021 at 7:00 pm.

Respectfully Submitted Electronically,
Monica Richer,
Recording Secretary

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

June 7, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Fran Ash, Kathy VanderKolk, Gail Huber, Michelle Quakenbush.

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Huber, supported by VanderKolk, to approve regular meeting minutes of May 3, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion by Ash, supported by Huber, to approve the treasurer’s report of June 7, 2021 balance of $2,130.048.23 and overall balance of $2,302,005.15.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Smith, VanderKolk, Huber, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

No comments.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER
Lee Schlappi, former blight officer, seems to be still doing work for the township. Supervisor Smith will contact him regarding setting up a meeting with attorney Bloem to discuss blight procedures.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE
ZA Bebee was absent.

CHIP SEAL CONTRACT
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to approve a chip seal contract for Leaton Rd (Pickard to Baseline), Airport Rd (Summerton to Leaton), Summerton Rd (Airport to Remus), Remus Rd (Leaton to Shepherd) and East County Line Rd (Millbrook to Pickard) for $168,251.66. Chippewa Township’s share paid by tribal 2021 spring 2%.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, VanderKolk, Smith, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

CYBER INSURANCE
Clerk Ash stated she spoke with Shari from Burnham and Flower and she said that the township might not meet the criteria for Traveler’s Insurance, the current carrier of the township’s cyber insurance and their premiums have gone up. She has had good pricing come through for HDI Global. The current cyber insurance expires July 1, 2021.
Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Huber, for Clerk Ash to fill out the application for HDI and purchase the cyber insurance up to $4000.00.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Ash, Quakenbush, Huber, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

TRIBAL LAND TRUST
The township received a certified letter from the Bureau of Indian Affairs for information on three properties placed in trust. They asked for the amount of taxes levied to the township, if there are any special assessments or government services that are provided to the property and if use is consistent with zoning. Clerk Ash will send a letter in response to the information they requested.

BUDGET AMENDMENT
Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Quakenbush, to amend the 2021-2022 budget: Dues $50.00 due to an increase of the yearly MTA dues.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Quakenbush, Huber, VanderKolk, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

POLICIES
The clerk pays several Consumers Energy bills online because of the due dates. She also sometimes pays the Spectrum and Accident Fund online due to the statements coming a week before the due date. She gives the board copies of the statements and payment receipts at the following board meeting. Attorney Bloem will look into online payments policies.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Quakenbush, Smith, Vanderkolk, Huber; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Ash, supported by VanderKolk, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:19 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
May 10, 2021 Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Susan Gates (Chair), Monica Richer, Bob Wetherbee, Michelle Quakenbush, Rod Reid, Bill Miller.
Absent: Matt Flegel, ZA Tim Bebee

Pledge of Allegiance. 

Approval of minutes of special meeting April 2, 2021, and of regular meeting April 12, 2021: motion by Michelle; Wetherbee second; all in favor.
Motion carried.

Correspondence: None.

Audience Participation: None.

Old Business: 

Handouts by ZA, of blight ordinance, campground, preliminary definitions for adult foster care, with changes made by ZA, for review by commission. Lengthy discussion on blight.
Commission is asked to review ponds, mining, soil removal, excavation-fill, for next meeting.

New Business: None.

Adjournment: 8:15PM Motion made by Richer, second by Reid.
Motion carried.

Next regularly scheduled meeting: June 14, 2021 at 7:00PM.

Respectfully Submitted, electronically,
Monica Richer,
Recording Secretary

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

May 3, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Gail Huber, Fran Ash, Michelle Quakenbush

Absent: Kathy VanderKolk

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to approve regular meeting minutes of April 5, 2021 and special meeting minutes of April 13, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion by Ash, supported by Huber, to approve the treasurer’s report of May 4, 2021 balance of $2,097,764.04 and overall balance of $2,269,692.71.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Huber, Ash, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

No comments.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER
ZA Bebee talked to Sheriff Main. Ordinances would have to be clear for an officer to uphold. The township would have to commit to a contract with the sheriff’s department to pay for the officer.
Huber will contact the person who was interested in the blight officer position.

INVESTMENT
Lori Bebee presented the board with a conservative investment proposal.
Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to give the treasurer and the supervisor the discretion to enter into the Chippewa Township Select Management Proposal up to one million dollars.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Ash, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE
ZA Bebee gave his update.

GRAVEL CONTRACTS
Motion by Ash, supported by Huber, to approve gravel contracts for Wing Rd from Wise Chippewa and Wing Rd. from Loomis to Wise at a cost of $10,697.65 each.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Smith, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

TREASURER- MTA CONFERENCE
Motion by Huber, supported by Ash, to approve to reimburse treasurer, Kathy, $310.50 for the MTA virtual conference and manual.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Ash, Huber, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

FIREFIGHTER VACCINATION INCENTIVE
Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to not pay firefighters $100.00 incentive pay to get the COVID vaccination.
Motion carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Huber, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Quakenbush, Huber, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

OTHER

ELECTION WORKERS
Motion by Ash, supported by Huber, to pay $18.00/hour for chairperson and $15.00/hour for 5 election inspectors for the May 4, 2021 special election.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Huber, Quakenbush, Smith; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

Clerk Ash stated the auditor’s 2020-2022 contract was not in the minutes. Board members recalled that it was discussed and approved. Clerk Ash would like it approved again so it can be in the minutes.
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to approve the Maner Costerisan 2020 contract not to exceed $5950, 2021 contract not to exceed $6500 and 2022 contract not to exceed $7050.
Roll call vote—Yes: Huber, Quakenbush, Ash, Smith; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Huber, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned at 8:25 pm

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

April 13, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Fran Ash, Michelle Quakenbush, Kathy VanderKolk.
Absent: Gail Huber

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

No comment.

CEMETERY
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to approve Grim Enterprises 2021-2022 cemetery contract upon proof of liability and workman’s comp insurance.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Ash, VanderKolk; No: Smith.
Motion carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to adjourn.
Meeting adjourned 7:23 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

April 5, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Kathy VanderKolk, Fran Ash, Michelle Quakenbush
Absent: Gail Huber

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to approve regular meeting and budget minutes of March 1, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to approve the treasurer’s report of April 5, 2021 balance of $2,148,936.52 and overall balance of $2,563,021.08.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, VanderKolk, Ash, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

Residents commented on blight on Wise Rd. and Baseline Rd. and the Wing Rd. trailer park issue. The Wise Rd. and Wing Rd. issues have been turned over to the township attorney and the Baseline Rd. blight will also be turned over to the township attorney.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER

ZA Bebee will check with Sheriff Main regarding coming to the next meeting for information regarding contracting with the sheriff’s department to assist with blight enforcement.

INVESTMENT
Treasurer VanderKolk will check with financial planner, Lori Bebee, to see if she can come to the next meeting.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE
ZA Bebee gave his update.

SPECIAL USE PERMIT
ZA Bebee said he had made an error on the special use permit for a home gun repair. A special use permit is not needed as it is considered a use by right. The Planning Commission approved it at the April 2 meeting.

FIREHALL WELL REPAIR
Motion by Ash, supported by VanderKolk, to approve repairs to the firehall’s well by Gates Well Drilling in the amount of $5714.00.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, VanderKolk, Smith, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously approved.

BUDGET AMENDMENTS
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to amend the following 2020-2021 budget amendments: Township offices: Utilities $100.00, Frontier $30.00, Fire Protection: Capital Outlay $3000.00, Broadway: Lights $735.00.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Ash, VanderKolk, Smith.
Motion unanimously approved.

CEMETERY
Grim Enterprises cemetery contract was approved at the March meeting. Since then Shane Grim, owner of Grim Enterprises, has moved out of state. The board didn’t feel comfortable with sub-contractors maintaining the cemetery.
Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Smith, to offer Your Way Lawncare the cemetery contract for acceptance.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Quakenbush, VanderKolk, Smith.
Motion unanimously carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: VanderKolk, Smith, Quakenbush, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Ash supported by VanderKolk to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned 8:47pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
March 08, 2021 (via ZOOM) Minutes

Call to Order 7:00 pm

Present: Bob Wetherbee, Matt Flegel, Michelle Quakenbush, Susan Gates (Chair), Monica Richer, Rod Reid, Bill Miller.
Absent: ZA Tim Bebee.

Pledge of Allegiance. 

Minutes of February 08, 2021: Motion to accept Reid; second, Wetherbee.
All in favor.
Motion carried.

Correspondence: None.

Audience Participation: 

Joshua Kroell, 10129 East Wing Road, Shepherd MI. Mr. Kroell read a letter written and signed by a community of residents surrounding 10790 East Wing Road. This property is owned by a David Clark. Mr Clark does not reside on this property. This property is ten (10) acres divided into 3 parcels. There are many mobile homes on this property and the surrounding residents fear Mr Clark is trying to build a mobile home park. Roads have also been started. The frustrated residents want to know what can be done about the BLIGHT that is taking place in their community.
Quakenbush recommended Mr. Kroell send the letter to ZA Bebee for the Planning Commission, as well as the Township Board. Mr Kroell will also attend the next Township Board meeting. Quakenbush will inform the township lawyer.

Brandon Haas would like information to be able to move forward on his Home Occupation Gunsmith shop. His permit with ATF was due to expire in February and he is afraid ATF will make him re-submit. Chair Gates will try to track the standing on this.

Old Business: 

Discussion on wind and solar ordinances for next meeting.

New Business: 

None.

Motion to adjourn 8:10 pm made by Quakenbush, second by Flegel.
All in favor.
Motion carried. 

Next regularly scheduled meeting April 12, 2021, at 7:00 pm in person. 

Respectfully Submitted Electronically,
Monica Richer,
Recording Secretary

BUDGET MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

MEETING HELD VIRTUALLY THROUGH ZOOM

March 1, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:44 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Fran Ash, Kathy VanderKolk, Michelle Quakenbush, Gail Huber

The board discussed the 2021-2022 budget.

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Huber, to adopt the 2021-2022 budget.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Ash, Quakenbush, Huber, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned 8:20 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

MEETING HELD VIRTUALLY THROUGH ZOOM

March 1, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Kathy VanderKolk, Fran Ash, Gail Huber, Michelle Quakenbush

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to approve minutes of Feb. 1, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to approve the treasurer’s report of March 1, 2021 balance of $2,100,501.99 and overall balance of $2,514, 462.34.
Roll call vote—Yes: Huber, Quakenbush, Smith, Ash, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

No comments.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER
A Planning Commission member checked with Michael Main, Isabella County Sheriff, to see if someone from the sheriff’s department could work part time as the township’s blight officer but that would not be allowed by the sheriff’s department.

INVESTMENT
Attorney Bloem looked over the township’s investment policy. He said most of it he did not understand. He gave Treasurer VanderKolk some phone numbers of the MTA, Michigan Municipal Treasurer’s Association and Michigan Government Finance Officers Association. VanderKolk stated she did talk to someone at Maner Costerisan, the township’s auditors, and will talk to him some more. She is not ready to commit.
The board would like more information on what can be done regarding investing. The township needs to pass a depository resolution.
Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Ash, to adopt Resolution 2021-03 Designating Depositories.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Huber, Ash, VanderKolk, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously approved.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE
ZA Bebee gave his update.

SNOWPLOWING CONTRACT
Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to renew Your Way Lawncare snowplowing contract for 2021-2022.
Roll call vote—Yes: VanderKolk, Huber, Ash, Smith, Quakenbush; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

CEMETERY CONTRACT
Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Huber, to renew Grim Enterprises cemetery contract for 2021-2022.
Roll call vote—Yes: VanderKolk, Ash, Huber, Quakenbush, Smith; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

BUDGET AMENDMENTS
Motion by Quakenbush, supported by Huber, for the following 2020-2021 budget amendments: Elections: postage $1000.00, Elections: office supplies $200.00, Elections: computer and software $3500.00, Board of Review: per diems $800.00, Township offices: contracted services $1500.00, Township offices: utilities $1500.00, Verizon $100.00, Cemetery: Contracted services $600.00, Streetlights: Broadway $1100.00, Zoning: computer and software $300.00, Insurance: $3000.00.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Ash, Quakenbush, VanderKolk, Huber; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: Ash, Huber, Quakenbush, Smith, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

BRINE CONTRACT
Motion by Ash, supported by VanderKolk, to approve Isabella County Road Commission 2021 brine contract for three applications at a cost of $29, 167.21.
Roll call vote—Yes: VanderKolk, Ash, Quakenbush, Huber, Smith; No: None.
Motion carried.

PA116
Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Huber, to approve Jerry and Susan Travis PA116 Michigan Farmland and Open Space Preservation Act.
Motion carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Huber, supported byQuakenbush, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned 7:44 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk

REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHIPPEWA TOWNSHIP BOARD

MEETING HELD VIRTUALLY THROUGH ZOOM

February 1, 2021

Supervisor Smith called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Present: Rob Smith, Fran Ash, Kathy VanderKolk, Michelle Quakenbush, Gail Huber

PREVIOUS MINUTES

Motion by Quakenbush, supported by VanderKolk, to approve minutes of Jan. 4, 2021.
Motion carried.

TREASURER'S REPORT

Motion by Ash, supported by Huber, to approve the treasurer’s report of Feb. 1, 2021 balance of $2,092,689.54 and overall balance of $2,507,270.89.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Quakenbush, Ash, VanderKolk, Huber; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PUBLIC COMMENT (AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION)

County Commissioner, Jim Horton, gave an update on the county.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BLIGHT OFFICER
Huber stated that the person who was interested still hasn’t been cleared by doctor since his surgery. One of the Planning Commission members was going to check with the Isabella County Sheriff to see if he knew of someone that might be interested.

NEW BUSINESS

ZONING ADMINSTRATOR – TIM BEBEE
Bebee stated he has been working on a wind ordinance in Midland County and had the opportunity to go over their wind tower ordinance. Mt. Haley Township had the best ordinance which could be modified for Chippewa Township. He is trying to get it done before the next Planning Commission meeting. He also has had some inquires if the township was going to change its marijuana ordinance.

Attorney Bloem stated that Bebee has been dealing with the blight situation. He said it is at a point that if the board wants to clean up the township they will need to file civil nuisance claims. He wants it to go on record that if the board wants him to do these kind of cases, it will cost the township. Years ago, when the Mathewson property was cleaned up he told the board it was going to cost more that the property was worth and it turned out to be true. Some township residents filed a complaint about him to the Attorney Grievance Committee.

LORI BEBEE INVESTMENT PROPOSAL
Lori Bebee presented the board with three different investment proposals. Currently, the township’s funds are making 1% interest or less. Attorney Bloem will look over the township’s investment policy.

RESOLUTION TO PROTEST IN WRITING
Motion by Ash, supported by VanderKolk, to adopt Resolution 2021-1 To Protest in Writing.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Quakenbush, VanderKolk, Huber, Ash; No: None.
Motion unanimously approved.

POVERTY EXEMPTION GUIDELINES
Motion by Ash, supported by Huber, to adopt Resolution 2021-2 Poverty Exemption Guidelines.
Roll call vote—Yes: Quakenbush, Ash Huber, VanderKolk, Smith; No: None.
Motion unanimously approved.

ISABELLA COUNTY INTERLOCAL AGREEMENT FOR COUNTY ASSESSOR
Motion by VanderKolk, supported by Quakenbush, to approve the Isabella County Interlocal Agreement for County Assessor.
Roll call vote—Yes: VanderKolk, Ash, Quakenbush, Huber Smith; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

BUDGET MEETING
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to hold the 2021-2022 budget meeting immediately following the March 1, 2021 regular board meeting.
Motion carried.

BUDGET AMENDMENTS
Motion by Ash, supported by Quakenbush, to approve the following budget amendments:
Attorney fees: $3000.00, Deputy Clerk: $300.00, Zoning computer and software: $2500.00, Township offices contracted services: $2500.00, Cemetery contracted services: $400.00.
Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Huber, Ash, Quakenbush, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

Clerk Ash stated that she made a mistake on a previous budget amendment entry. She had entered the $300.00 budget amendment for election postage into the wrong line item so therefore, the second amendment wasn’t necessary.
Motion by Ash, supported by VanderKolk, to reverse the $300.00 election postage amendment. Roll call vote—Yes: Smith, Ash, Huber, Quakenbush, VanderKolk; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

PAY THE BILLS

Motion by Huber, supported by Quakenbush, to pay the bills.
Roll call vote—Yes: Huber, Ash, Quakenbush, VanderKolk, Smith; No: None.
Motion unanimously carried.

ADJOURNMENT

Motion by Huber, supported byQuakenbush, to adjourn.
Motion carried.
Meeting adjourned 8:35 pm.

Fran Ash
Chippewa Township Clerk