Summary
The Centerville Township Board met on October 15, 2025, with all five members present. The Board approved the amended agenda, the September 10 minutes (with an edit from O’Non), the Treasurer’s report, and payment of invoices, all by 5-0 votes. Discussion continued on the Northgate mediation, the fire district’s upcoming budget, and a new decision to hold a prayer before the Pledge of Allegiance.
Public Comments
Peggy Zemanek spoke twice, first supporting a prayer at meetings and suggesting it occur before the Pledge of Allegiance, and later expressing happiness with the Board’s decision to adopt that practice. A reference was made to a prior request from Deb Kuhn that septic sewage disposal updates be a standing agenda item; Schaub noted there was no new activity this month, so it was not added. Alan Campbell, the County Commissioner, commented that the township’s two largest taxpayers are campgrounds. Resident Bill Rastetter urged the Board to review the new Northgate application and decide which parts they would approve before mediation, noting the township’s ordinance is discretionary.
Infrastructure Projects
No new activity was reported on the septic sewage disposal problem in the township this month, so it was not placed on the agenda, per Schaub.
Other Business
Commissioner Alan Campbell reported the county budget is nearing completion, with four commissioners opposed to a millage increase; the union contract was approved; Centerville ranked 9th in the county for taxable value (Leland highest); the county released an attorney statement finding no policy violation by Dyer; a revolving drain fund was created; and the county plans to renovate the Settlers Park gazebo. The Clerk reported that Dominion, the voting equipment supplier, was bought out by a new company committed to security. The Planning Commission discussed slowing the site plan review process (Schaub’s inquiry, using Northgate as an example of a 17-element application), ongoing contact issues with Northgate, and a vineyard owner (Doug Matthias) inquiring about hosting weddings/events on his property. The Cedar Area Fire and Rescue Board shared its 26-27 budget, noting possible need to use contingency funds; approval was tabled until next month. Northgate mediation update: Schaub, Kellogg, and Arens will attend; attorney Lauren Teichner is drafting a motion to dismiss; O’Non expressed concern about potential agreements made without her input.
Financial Summary
The Treasurer reported tax collection complete; a CD matures in November and another in December, with funds to be reinvested, including one option Pleva found offering 4.7% interest for 7 months. Invoices were approved for payment (5-0). Summer bill printing cost $1,344.77, which the Board agreed to pay. The Fire Board’s 26-27 budget was distributed, with concern about limited flexibility and possible use of contingency funds; a comparison of last year’s and this year’s fire budget figures was requested by Pleva for next month.
Action Items
Schaub will bring last year’s and this year’s fire budget figures to the next meeting for Pleva’s review. Arens will raise the site plan review timing issue again at the November 5 Planning Commission meeting. The Board must decide whether to meet with attorneys Wierda and Teichner before the Northgate mediation; the motion to dismiss mediation is being drafted by Teichner. No update yet from the Court of Appeals on the Brian Rogers matter.