Summary
The Centerville Township Board met on August 13, 2025, with all five members present (Ronald Schaub, Elizabeth Chiles, Katrina Pleva, Jolyn Arens, Kerry O'Non). Key actions included approving the Interlocal Fire Department Agreement, deciding not to conduct a full Master Plan review this year, discontinuing Zoom broadcasting of meetings, and discussing the Northgate lawsuit, which the Township won at the Court of Appeals. The Board also addressed a hazardous intersection near Holy Rosary Church and a parking lot rock grant application.
Public Comments
Schaub recited a prayer submitted by a resident concerning wisdom for the Board and the Northgate situation. During the second public comment period, Deb Kuhn asked the Board to continue opposing the dumping of septic waste on farmland in the Township. Ron Schaub responded that the new CEO of Public Works had contacted him to begin dialogue on septage disposal on farmland. Tim O'Non suggested the Township ask the rock-supply company about drainage issues at the parking lot project.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Tom Nelson updated the Planning Commission on the Sugar Loaf project, which aims to raise $8 million so the owner can donate the property to the Leelanau Conservancy; about $2 million more is needed. The property would become a year-round recreation area. The Board and residents were encouraged to consider the project's impact on the area.
Infrastructure Projects
Pleva reported multiple incidents of motorists running the stop sign at the Holy Rosary Church intersection, including an accident. She contacted Brendan Mullane, who suggested requesting an illuminated stop sign or rumble strips; an obscuring tree will be trimmed by the Road Commission. Vans are sometimes parked in front of the stop signs. Separately, the Township received four bids for rocks for the Township Hall parking spaces and driveway; a first-come/first-served grant is available, and the Board agreed by consensus to let Chiles apply.
Other Business
Commissioner Alan Campbell reported the Early Childhood Program fund balance exceeds $900,000 and he suggested a voucher program. The County received a final $475,000 bill from Point Broadband, which still has outstanding obligations; Glen Arbor remains uncovered. $1 million is coming to Leelanau County from opioid settlements. Zoning Ordinance copies will be distributed to the Board and Planning Commission; O'Non requested a copy of the old ordinance. Brian Rogers' Court of Appeals matter remains without response. Northgate subpoenas are due August 25, with a dismissal filing planned by Brad Wierda at month's end; estimated case cost is $125,000 if not dismissed.
Financial Summary
The Treasurer's Report noted remaining ARPA funds and a matured, rolled-over CD, with a separate roads fund account. Invoices were approved 5-0, though the Leelanau Sheet Metal bill excluded electrical work. The Township is on budget except for lawyer fees. Zoom update costs were estimated at $800, but the Board voted 5-0 to discontinue Zoom. Insurance for Cedar Area Fire and Rescue is increasing 14% effective October 1.
Action Items
Chiles will correct P&L errors and work with Schaub on showing income/fund allocations. Chiles will apply for the parking lot rock grant. The Road Commission will remove tree branches obscuring the stop sign at Holy Rosary Church. Subpoenas in the Northgate case are due August 25, with a dismissal filing expected by Brad Wierda by month's end.