Summary
The Centerville Township Board met August 13, 2025, with all five members present (Schaub, Chiles, Pleva, Arens, O'Non). The Board approved the agenda, prior minutes, and invoices, discontinued Zoom broadcasting of meetings, decided not to conduct a full Master Plan review this year, and authorized signing an updated Interlocal Fire Department Agreement. The Board also learned the Township won the Northgate case at the Court of Appeals.
Public Comments
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 has contacted him to begin dialogue on septage disposal on farmland. Tim O'Non suggested the Township ask the rock-supply company about drainage issues for the parking area.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Planning Commission member Tom Nelson reported on the Sugar Loaf project: the goal is to raise $8 million, with about $2 million still needed, so the owner can donate the property to the Leelanau Conservancy for an all-year-round recreation area. The Board and residents were encouraged to consider the project's impact on the area.
Infrastructure Projects
Pleva reported dangerous conditions at the Holy Rosary Church intersection, including motorists running the stop sign and an accident; she contacted Brendan Mullane, who suggested an illuminated stop sign or rumble strips. A tree needs trimming, and the Road Commission will remove the branches. The Township received four bids for rocks for the parking spaces and driveway at Township Hall; a grant is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the Board agreed by consensus to let Chiles apply for it.
Other Business
Commissioner Alan Campbell reported an Early Childhood Program fund balance over $900,000 and suggested a voucher program; the County received a final $475,000 bill from Point Broadband, which still has outstanding work (Glen Arbor remains uncovered); $1 million is coming to Leelanau County from opioid settlements. Jen Cram was hired as Township planner. The Fire Board reported insurance rising 14% on October 1 and specs for a new building, with an Open House set for September 9–10.
Financial Summary
The Township is on budget except for lawyer fees, which need a separate budget category. Zoom update would cost about $800; the Board voted 5-0 to discontinue Zoom instead. The estimated cost of the Northgate case is $125,000 if not dismissed. Invoices were paid by a 5-0 vote.
Action Items
Chiles to correct P&L errors and work with Schaub on showing fund sources/uses; Chiles to apply for the parking-lot rock grant. Northgate subpoenas due August 25; attorney Brad Wierda plans to file a dismissal by month's end. Road Commission to remove tree branches at Holy Rosary Church intersection. Board and Planning Commission members to receive copies of the new Zoning Ordinance (O'Non also requested the old ordinance). Next Board meeting: September 3, 2025, 6:30 p.m.; next Planning Commission meeting: September 22, 2025.