Summary
The Centerville Township Board met May 13, 2026 (minutes approved June 10, 2026) with Ronald Schaub, Elizabeth Chiles, Katrina Pleva, and Kerry O’Non present; Jolyn Arens was absent. The Board approved the amended agenda, prior minutes, Treasurer’s report, and invoices (all 4-0). Key actions included approving the Cedar Area Fire and Rescue strategic plan, agreeing to increase the fire millage to 2.50 mills for the August election, and voting 3-in-favor/1-abstained to submit a 2% grant application for $15,000 in planning consultant fees. A special meeting to discuss the grant failed for lack of support.
Public Comments
Deb Kuhn stated Centerville’s ordinance can override state statute on septage disposal and urged Board and public involvement. Darlene Doorlag supported Kuhn’s comments and encouraged support for the millage. Later in the meeting, Jasmine Harister Hairston warned that septage spread on farmland can impact all farmers; Schaub said he would ask Bzdok to attend a future meeting to discuss this. Scott Collins noted the State may change its rules. Mark Zemanek said Willians and Bay disposes septage differently than other haulers, that septage can go to the Traverse City treatment plant, and voiced support for an independent citizens group, arguing control should rest with the Township, not the State.
Parks and Recreation Matters
The Board agreed to upgrade signage at the park regarding boat washing, per the Lake Association’s request.
Infrastructure Projects
Road Commission representative Brendan Mullane reported that a new sales tax structure, including corporate sales tax and retail marijuana tax, will fund a neighborhood road fund. He noted buying power is at 65%, a millage is on the ballot, and primary roads in Maple City will be repaired this summer. He also discussed 2027 emission laws and building expansion for equipment storage.
Financial Summary
Commissioner Alan Campbell reported the maximum millage that can be levied is 3.20 mills, with more funds being held in the contingency fund; opioid settlement funds and a possible Medicaid voucher system were discussed. The 2% grant application seeks $15,000 for consultant fees, to be signed by the Supervisor or Clerk and submitted by month’s end. Land division fees were discussed, with a proposed $450 fee for up to 4 splits plus $50 per additional split; no decision was made pending further review. Clean-up of the Brian Rogers property was estimated at $5,000–$7,000, to be recouped via a lien.
Other Business
Planning Commission updates included zoning ordinance typo corrections (to be reviewed by the township attorney), an AI-based zoning information tool proposed by Scott Sheehan and Travis Kemp (pending contract review before approval), monitoring of a Good Harbor camping violation, and a complaint about vehicles on Henke Hohnke Road. The Northgate Appeal/Mediation is scheduled for June 22 at 1:00 p.m., with Kellogg and Arens attending. Election results showed 29 in-person voters and 125 mail-in ballots; Clerk Michelle Crocker advised on ballot-marking procedures.
Action Items
- Schaub to invite Bzdok to a future meeting regarding septage disposal concerns.
- Board to review the AI zoning tool contract before next meeting.
- Board to obtain further opinions on land division and other fee schedules.
- Board to establish a policy on non-conforming structures.
- Brian Rogers property clean-up decision tabled for next meeting.
- Kellogg and Arens to attend Northgate mediation, June 22, 1:00 p.m.