Summary
The Empire Township Board met April 14, 2026, with Supervisor Kathy Wiejaczka presiding. The board approved prior minutes, tabled action on a 40-acre South Benzonia Trail property indefinitely, appointed Maggie Bacon as the new township clerk effective May 1, 2026, and approved mold testing at the campground host building. The Vertical Bridge cell tower application remains under planning commission review, with another public hearing set for April 22.
Public Comments
No public comments were made on agenda topics earlier in the meeting. Under general public comments, a resident asked about the status of Vertical Bridge's communication tower application; the board responded and confirmed the next public hearing is scheduled for April 22 at 7 p.m. No written letters or comments were noted as submitted.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
Supervisor Wiejaczka reported that the joint Empire Township/Village Affordable Housing Committee met March 26 and decided not to recommend support for the Sleeping Bear Gateway Council's proposed housing project on 40 acres of township/village property on South Benzonia Trail, citing deed restrictions requiring public use. The board discussed whether environmental legal review was needed due to an adjacent landfill and whether the property might instead serve a public purpose such as a fire hall. Motion by Wolterink, seconded by Noonan, to table consideration of action on the 40-acre property indefinitely; all present voted yes.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Wiejaczka and Wolterink, serving as the campground host interviewing committee, reported that a finalist for the host position withdrew over concerns about working with the campground manager. The manager also indicated possible mold in the host residence. Motion by Clark, seconded by Wolterink, to hire 911 Restoration to conduct mold testing at the campground host building at a cost not to exceed $500; all present voted yes.
Infrastructure Projects
Trustee Wolterink reported on planning commission activity regarding Vertical Bridge's communication tower application, now involving two possible sites. Following public comments at the March 25 hearing, the commission asked Vertical Bridge to consolidate its application around a single proposed location and provide more documentation on why alternative sites were rejected. A further public hearing is scheduled for April 22 at 7 p.m.
Financial Summary
Treasurer Bob Price presented the treasurer's report, noting totals for all funds. Clerk accountant Sheree Nelson reported that year-end budget vs. actual figures for the 2025-2026 fiscal year showed excellent accuracy, and noted W2 amendments, quarterly federal filings, and new payroll system implementation. Motion by Noonan, seconded by Wolterink, to approve bill payments; all present voted yes. The board also approved up to $500 for mold testing at the campground host building.
Other Business
The board deferred adoption of draft rules of procedure pending further review by the incoming clerk. Clerk Cheryl Clark presented job descriptions and a hiring process for future clerk assistants. Wiejaczka noted donated paint for the township office; the board scheduled painting for May at the next regular meeting. Fire Captain Chad Dykgraaf reported 17 March calls, 98 year-to-date, new vehicle logos, and honored Tim Nichols for 42 years of service; he also requested help securing fire department parking on Village-owned land, which audience member and incoming village council member Maggie Bacon offered to raise with the village council.
Action Items
Fire union negotiations continue, with the next meeting May 6. The Vertical Bridge tower hearing continues April 22. Township office painting is scheduled for May's regular meeting. Clerk Cheryl Clark will transition out of office over the next two weeks ahead of her April 30 resignation, with Maggie Bacon assuming the clerk role May 1. Mold testing at the campground host building is to proceed via 911 Restoration.