Summary
The Centerville Township Board met July 9, 2025, with all five members present. The Board approved the amended agenda and June 11 minutes (5-0 each), approved payment of bills (5-0), and approved the 2-year budget for the Cedar Area Fire and Rescue Board (5-0, moved by Schaub, supported by O'Non). Discussion covered the Fire Department Interlocal Agreement, Master Plan review costs, Northgate legal matters, and building repairs.
Public Comments
During the public hearing on the Interlocal Agreement, there were no comments. Don Baty asked whether economic changes were made to the agreement; Schaub responded that fire department cost-sharing remains 25% per township across the four departments. Baty also raised concerns about funding equity, noting Centerville and Solon townships pay more than Kasson and Cleveland since they own the fire building and cover major repairs; he suggested this be reviewed before the agreement is signed. Bill Rastetter stated the Master Plan needs review or a full redo, projecting 20 years out, and said he would email an article to Board members. Baty stated the Township's lawyers need adequate time and support on the Northgate case.
Infrastructure Projects
Bill Walters reported problems with the Northgate lagoon during Planning Commission discussion and asked the PC to be liberal with farmers when reviewing the Master Plan and amending ordinances.
Other Business
A closed meeting with lawyers on the Northgate case was scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at 6:30 p.m., with Lindy Kellogg and Jenn Cram invited; an open session will follow if decisions are needed. Insurance will cover attorney fees for the Northgate case up to $100,000. Brian Rogers' matter remains unresolved, with no response yet from the Court of Appeals. Election equipment was inspected and certified, with free servicing available for up to 5 years. Pleva will handle building repair needs with Fred Peplinski, though a licensed/insured contractor is needed for roof work; heating/cooling units are installed pending electrical hookup. The Planning Commission's next meeting is August 4, 2025; the Fire Board's is August 6, 2025; the next Township Board meeting is August 13, 2025.
Financial Summary
The Township purchased a $50,000 CD at 5.25%. The State provided $7,010 in unanticipated revenue; Pleva suggested placing it in a new Roads fund. Taxes were mailed June 30, 2025. The balance sheet shows $150,000 reserved for Fire Department back-up, with no liabilities as of the fiscal year end (March 31). A full Master Plan revision was estimated at $10,000 to $20,000; Schaub and O'Non favored postponing it due to cost.
Action Items
Arens will contact Tim Cypher regarding zoning complaint logs and report back to the Board. Chiles will research who performs election equipment inspections. Pleva will set up a Roads fund account. Schaub will raise the Fire Department funding equity issue and Interlocal Agreement at the next Fire Board meeting. The Planning Commission will develop a formal complaint log/form. Rastetter will email an article on Master Plan review to the Board. The closed session on the Northgate lawsuit is set for July 15, 2025.