Summary
The Centerville Township Board met on October 14, 2026, with all five members present (Schaub, Chiles, Pleva, O'non, Arens). The Board approved the agenda, Treasurer's Report, bill payments, and a $1,384 KCI estimate for printing and mailing winter tax bills, all by 5-0 votes. Planning Commission business included a proposal to expand membership and discussion of the Schomberg development site. The Board also began addressing policy questions around recording devices such as "smart" sunglasses.
Public Comments
Deb Kuhn noted that the August minutes contained an error, stating the Board had agreed to hire an Environmental Consultant, not an Engineer. Kuhn also asked the Commissioner whether opioid settlement funds could be used for mental health needs; he responded that this is possible but requires further discussion about community and organizational needs before funds are disbursed. Commissioner Campbell commented during public comment that any policy on recording devices must be carefully drafted in light of the Open Meetings Act, noting the underlying law dates to 1976 but its principles still apply.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Dziedzic asked about the portajohn at the park. Chiles reported there is no existing contract with Williams & Bay, so the township is free to hire another company for this service.
Infrastructure Projects
No cell tower, water, sewer, or marina projects were discussed. Noah Karberg will be invited to the next meeting to discuss septage disposal options related to the Schomberg development, where drainage was flagged as a major concern requiring coordination between the engineer and landscaper.
Other Business
- Clerk Chiles reported election ballots for Perm List voters were mailed September 29–30 and are now being returned for processing.
- Planning Commission: Jennifer Graham of Gourdie-Fraser recommended strict adherence to the Zoning Ordinance and a performance guarantee for the Schomberg site. Rolf noted the Commission's heavy workload and need to grow from five to seven members. Chiles proposed adding two new members by January 1, 2027, supported by O'non. Tim O'non introduced John and Rachel Smith, who are disputing a denied lot-line request from reviewer Jenn Cram; Pleva suggested a meeting between the ZA, the Smiths, and O'non to clarify the request.
- A Public Hearing on the revised CAFB Interlocal Agreement is set for November 11 at 6:30 p.m., with a vote on the 2027-28 CAFB budget scheduled for the November meeting.
- The Supervisor reported Board of Review meetings may be held jointly with other townships; Ron will investigate further. BOR members must retake continuing education this year.
- Unfinished business: the Northgate matter awaits a Court of Appeals decision; Rogers property clean-up has tagged items for removal, scheduled for October 28–30 if not completed by Brian beforehand.
- Neil Dziedzic raised concerns about "smart" sunglasses that collect biometric data shared with third parties. Tim O'non noted an app exists to detect such devices. Jody suggested Kerry draft a device/recording policy, which the Board asked her to circulate a few days before the next meeting.
Financial Summary
Pleva reported opening a new CD at Lake MI Credit Union while keeping the 4Front Credit Union account open. Chiles noted some duplicate bill payments occurred due to early September statements arriving late. The Treasurer's Report and bill payments were each approved 5-0. The Board approved a $1,384 KCI estimate for printing and mailing winter tax bills, 5-0.
Action Items
- Ron to look further into joint Board of Review scheduling with other townships.
- Noah Karberg to attend the next meeting to discuss septage disposal for the Schomberg site.
- ZA, the Smiths, and Tim O'non to meet and review maps to clarify the lot-line request.
- Kerry to draft a policy on recording devices/smart glasses and circulate it a few days before the next meeting; Ron to consult with Lauren (attorney) regarding Open Meetings Act compliance.
- Rogers property clean-up deadline of October 28–30 if not completed beforehand by Brian.