Summary
The Centerville Township Board met March 11, 2026, with all five members present (Schaub, Chiles, Pleva, Arens, O’Non). The Board approved the agenda, prior minutes, Treasurer’s report, and bill payments, and amended the FY2025-26 budget to transfer surplus funds to cover deficits, including about $80,000 for legal fees. The Board approved Kathy Fordyce as the at-large CAFR board member and agreed to place a 2.50-mill fire operations renewal on the August ballot, projected to raise $418,250 in its first year. The Annual Meeting is set for March 21, 2026.
Public Comments
No public comments were made at the start of the meeting (Item 3). Later, resident Bill Rastetter asked about the Annual Meeting and requested a copy of the proposed budget. He also voiced support for submitting grant applications for environmental planning projects concerning Lake Leelanau. No formal board response or decision was recorded regarding his requests.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Commissioner Alan Campbell encouraged the Township to apply for a 2% grant for parks and environmental projects, noting details are on the Grand Traverse Band website. Separately, the Board noted that the contract for services for the parks has increased, contributing to budget adjustments.
Infrastructure Projects
Solon and Centerville Townships are exploring options to upgrade or replace the Fire Department building, potentially through a merger of townships. A related report was distributed to Board members; no vote was taken.
Other Business
- Commissioner Campbell reported on a child care voucher initiative, two grant submissions, renewal of the senior citizen millage, and an interim Drain Commissioner appointment pending a November ballot decision.
- Cedar Area Fire and Rescue (Pleva) reported budget stability, upcoming CPR classes, sale of the 2012 ambulance, and Kathy Fordyce’s approval as at-large board member (6-year term starting April 1, 2026), approved 5-0.
- The Planning Commission had no minutes available; training funds are budgeted for Board members.
- Northgate litigation returns to court March 16, 2026, regarding a dismissal request by Township attorneys.
- The Board agreed to place a 2.50-mill fire operations renewal (2026–2027) on the August ballot.
Financial Summary
The Treasurer’s report was accepted 5-0; a CD matured. Bills were approved 5-0; no legal invoice from Jen Cram had yet been received. The Board amended the budget 5-0 to shift unallocated surplus funds to departments in deficit, including about $80,000 for legal fees, with additional adjustments for FICA and parks service contracts. The draft 2026/27 budget is projected to be about $3,000 short, with increases expected for elections (two general, one school election) and equipment maintenance. The proposed fire millage renewal of 2.50 mills is estimated to raise $418,250 in its first year.
Action Items
- Pleva to consult a QuickBooks expert on proper procedure for transferring savings into the budget.
- Chiles to contact Gabridge and Co. regarding upcoming audit requirements.
- Northgate court hearing scheduled March 16, 2026.
- Annual Meeting scheduled March 21, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
- Next Board meeting scheduled April 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.