The Empire Township Board meeting on November 12, 2024, focused on several key issues, including the hiring of a new assessor, financial approvals for cemetery work, zoning updates, and adjustments to the Sign Ordinance. The board also acknowledged the service of current staff and discussed future budget considerations.
Public comments
Kathy Wiejaczka expressed her gratitude to Supervisor Carl Noonan and Micah Deegan for their contributions to Empire Township.
Affordable housing initiatives
(No discussions on affordable housing initiatives were recorded in the meeting minutes.)
Parks and recreation matters
(No parks and recreation matters were discussed in the meeting minutes.)
Infrastructure projects
1. **Cemetery Stump Grinding**: The board approved a charge of $500.00 to Traverse City Stump Grinding for removing stumps along M-109 after receiving permission from MDOT.
2. **Columbarium Landscaping**: The board reviewed and approved the landscaping plan for the columbarium area by Wild Juniper Nursery, with expenditures capped at $5,000.00.
Other Business
1. The board accepted the resignation of Planning Chair Duane Shugart, effective January 1, 2025.
2. The board modified and adopted the updated Sign Ordinance #2024-01, focusing on illumination standards and signage size regulations.
Financial Summary
- The board approved the payment of bills for October and November 2024.
- A bonus of $2,000.00 was awarded to retiring assessor Pam Zientek for her service to the township.
Action Items
- Supervisor Carl Noonan and the board to further consider compensation for Planning Commission members during the budget discussions.
- Final report and meeting with the Sleeping Bear Marathon organizers will be planned before the 2025 event.
- David Yack to begin working in the assessor position with Pam Zientek immediately after hiring.
Source Document
This summary was AI-generated from the official meeting record. The full source document is the authoritative version.