The Empire Township Board meeting on March 10, 2026, focused on various operational updates, including staffing decisions, financial reports, and community concerns. Key outcomes included the acceptance of a clerk resignation, several new staff appointments, and the approval of various motions regarding budgets and services.
Public Comments
No public comments were formally submitted on agenda topics. However, during the open comment period, a recommendation was made to post job openings through the Michigan Townships Association, alongside a concern regarding stress and turnover related to clerk resignations and township record management.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
The Supervisor reported that the Affordable Housing Committee would meet on March 11 to continue discussions regarding a proposed development on 40 acres located on Benzonia Trail.
Parks and Recreation Matters
(No discussion was provided regarding parks and recreation.)
Infrastructure Projects
The Planning Commission provided an update on an upcoming public hearing for a new communications tower proposed by Vertical Bridge, set for March 25.
Other Business
The board made decisions on several operational matters, including approving an automated payroll system for $1,700 annually and accepting the annual permit for the Sleeping Bear Marathon. They also scheduled a township office cleanup for March 24.
Financial Summary
The Treasurer presented financial reports concerning various funds. Significant financial decisions included:
- Approval of a staff Accountant position at $25/hour for approximately 5 hours/week, to be filled by Sheree Nelson.
- A Clerk-Election Assistant position at $25/hour for approximately 10 hours/week, which will be advertised.
- An Office Assistant position at $20/hour for approximately 5 hours/week, with a vote wherein Noonan opposed.
- Approval for a seasonal Campground Host position that includes housing/site compensation.
- Purchase of a tax assessor's laptop not to exceed $1,500.
Action Items
- The board will advertise for the new Clerk position following Cheryl Clark's resignation notice.
- Follow up on the Affordable Housing Committee meeting results will be necessary.
- Board members will draft and submit updates to the rules of procedure for the next meeting.
- Plans for the upcoming transition to an automated payroll system should move forward as discussed.
Source Document
This summary was AI-generated from the official meeting record. The full source document is the authoritative version.