Summary
The Centerville Township Board met May 14, 2025, with all five members present (Schaub, Chiles, Pleva, Arens, O'Non). The agenda and April 9 minutes were approved 5-0 with amendments. Major discussion centered on a citizen group studying septic waste disposal, a proposed budget amendment for insurance costs, and commissioner updates on affordable housing fees. All motions passed 5-0.
Public Comments
Rolf von Walthausen reported on a newly forming citizen group examining septic waste disposal in the township, following a meeting with the township attorney and a planned June 4 meeting with a state representative. He noted the group wants a "neighborly, not confrontational" approach and has been researching sewage sludge, septic tank waste, and holding tank waste. Lyndon Johncock of Williams and Bay, who spreads holding tank waste on farmland, declined to attend but spoke with Deb Kuhn, describing himself as an environmentalist. The group's goal is to prevent contamination like that seen in Cadillac, MI, where septic waste applied to farmland polluted well water and aquifers; EGLE was cited as the information source. Tim O'Non noted Arizona communities treat and reuse effluent for golf courses, a practice not permitted in Michigan. Kerry O'Non asked about meeting attendance (two meetings held, by invitation, documents shared via Google Drive). Jolyn Arens asked what was learned from Johncock; von Walthausen said more property owners are becoming conscious of waste practices. Von Walthausen invited residents to contact him to attend future meetings. In later public comment, Tim O'Non suggested improvements to the gravel driveway at the Township Hall, and Schaub relayed a discussion with Derenda LaFevre about making the Hall ADA compliant, proposing concrete work and paved, leveled access areas.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
Commissioner Alan Campbell reported the millage will remain at the Headlee-reduced level. He noted a proposal to eliminate or reduce building fees on affordable small homes to promote affordable housing, stressing that townships and villages should retain self-determination on the matter. Campbell also voted against a County Commission policy on 2% tribal grants, believing it favored professional grant writers.
Parks and Recreation Matters
The Supervisor reported a contract is needed for mowing and installing docks; Pleva will contact the responsible person. The porta john has been installed at the park.
Financial Summary
Treasurer's report: a CD expired and was rolled over; a high-yield $100,000 CD was obtained for one month. Year-end review showed a $70,000 surplus, with about $15,000 restricted for the Fire Department. Invoices were approved 5-0; a site plan review refund to Amoritas was authorized. The 2024-2025 budget shows $15,993 restricted for the fire department, in its own $19,416 fund. The board voted 5-0 to amend the budget, increasing insurance and bonds from $14,000 to $15,000, funded from unassigned funds. $50,000 was budgeted for roads, with discussion on Manor Green road repairs, possibly reverting to gravel.
Other Business
Clerk reported 21 in-person voters and 129 absentee ballots processed for the Leland School millage. Chase Bank requested an IRS letter verifying the township's EIN; one will be issued. The Planning Commission meeting was cancelled. Cedar Area Fire and Rescue Board reported proposed interlocal agreement changes from the Kasson lawyer, to be approved at the next meeting. Julie Krombeen is undergoing an audit. The Brian Rogers property case remains pending in court; he has not completed cleanup as promised. Arens asked about work in the swamp on 651 between Bodus and Cedar Road. No new report on Northgate.
Action Items
Pleva will ask her grandson to move gravel back into the Township Hall driveway. Pleva will contact the mowing/dock contractor. The Clerk will send a letter confirming the township's EIN to Chase Bank. The Brian Rogers property case continues to be monitored in court. Schaub raised ADA compliance improvements needed at the Township Hall entrance.