Summary
The Bingham Township Board held its regular meeting on June 15, 2026, with all members present. The Board approved a memorial sign project for three township parks, authorized wetlands delineation work for a new parking lot at Boughey Park, approved a parking lot sealing contract, approved a resolution supporting a liquor license application for Watkins Project Cellars LLC, and accepted the resignation of Clerk Rachel Amalfitano, appointing Shannon Korson to fill the remainder of her term.
Public Comments
Discussion was held regarding Michael Rokita's proposed sign project for the Eagle Scouts, which would place aluminum signs with park names and QR codes (linking to park history) at Hendryx, Boughey, and Bingham Parks. Following this discussion, the Board (Grant/Korson) moved to approve the three signs, with exact locations to be determined by the Parks and Rec Committee, at a total cost not to exceed $1,000. Motion carried 5-0.
Later in the meeting, under Public Comments and Announcements, Clerk Rachel Amalfitano announced her resignation effective at the end of the meeting, citing personal and family responsibilities. She recommended that her deputy, Shannon Korson, be appointed to fill the position, noting both were trained in election administration. Amalfitano stated she would like to remain as Deputy Clerk. The Board accepted her resignation and appointed Shannon Korson as Clerk for the remainder of the term (through November 2028) by roll call vote, 5-0.
Parks and Recreation Matters
The Board approved installation of three memorial/informational signs (Hendryx, Boughey, and Bingham Parks) proposed by Michael Rokita for an Eagle Scout project, with location decisions delegated to the Parks and Rec Committee and a cost cap of $1,000.
Wetlands delineation by EGLE was identified as a prerequisite for constructing a new parking lot at Boughey Park. The Board authorized Gosling-Czubak to begin the EGLE approval process for this project (Grant/Werner motion, carried 5-0).
The Parks and Recreation Committee report was given at the Annual Meeting (no further details provided in these minutes).
The Clerk raised concerns that Parks and Rec Committee members have been using personal credit cards for park purchases and seeking reimbursement. A debit card account was suggested as an alternative. Additionally, the $55/month cost for a Google Workspace subscription was noted. Both issues will be discussed further with the Parks and Rec Committee.
Infrastructure Projects
Parking Lot Sealing: Four bids were reviewed for sealing a township parking lot. Ace Seal Right submitted the lowest bid and was recommended by Supervisor Werner based on prior work performed for her. The Board (Grant/Korson) approved the Ace Seal Right bid for $2,525.00. Motion carried 5-0.
Boughey Park Parking Lot: See Parks and Recreation Matters above regarding EGLE wetlands delineation authorization.
Building & Grounds: Water service has been turned on, and new shades have been installed (reported by Rachel Amalfitano).
Other Business
- The agenda was approved as presented (5-0).
- Minutes from the May 18, 2026 meeting were approved as amended (5-0).
- Resolution 20260615.01 was approved, allowing Watkins Project Cellars LLC to apply for a liquor license (tasting room permit) at 5046 SW Bayshore Drive, Unit 2, Suttons Bay, MI. Approved by roll call vote, 5-0.
- Cemetery Committee report: Most trees planted last fall are doing well, with thanks to be sent to Michael Rokita and his sister for assistance planting. Grass growing through stones near the well at Bingham Cemetery was noted, along with discussion of installing a non-potable water sign; the matter was referred to the Cemetery Committee.
- Zoning Administrator/STR Administrator report: 75 STRs have been submitted against a cap of 86.
- Planning Commission, Fire Authority, Assessor, Treasurer, and Supervisor reports were either given at the Annual Meeting or had no updates.
Financial Summary
- Sign project (Hendryx, Boughey, Bingham Parks): approved, not to exceed $1,000.
- Parking lot sealing contract with Ace Seal Right: approved for $2,525.00.
- Vendor payments approved: $23,939.48.
- Payroll payments approved: $12,557.76.
- Google Workspace subscription: $55/month, noted for further discussion with Parks and Rec Committee.
Action Items
- Parks and Rec Committee to determine exact placement locations for the three approved memorial signs.
- Gosling-Czubak to initiate the EGLE wetlands delineation process for the Boughey Park parking lot project.
- Cemetery Committee to address grass growth near the well at Bingham Cemetery and consider installing a non-potable water warning sign.
- A thank-you note to be sent to Michael Rokita and his sister for assistance with cemetery tree planting.
- Clerk and Parks and Rec Committee to further discuss reimbursement practices (credit card use) and the Google Workspace subscription cost, with consideration of a debit card account.
- Shannon Korson to assume duties as Township Clerk for the remainder of the term through November 2028; Rachel Amalfitano to continue as Deputy Clerk.