Summary
The Kasson Township Board met October 8, 2025, with Supervisor Julian presiding and all members present. The board approved the agenda, September 9 minutes, and bills as presented, discussed road speed limit concerns on Burdickville Road, reviewed the draft 2026/27 Cedar Area Fire & Rescue budget, and heard extensive public comment on the upcoming fire station millage vote.
Public Comments
Ralph Worick submitted a written letter (attached to the minutes) regarding the speed limit on Burdickville Road/CR667 west of Maple City. He noted a 25 mph sign near his home but a "speed zone ends" sign further out that allows drivers to accelerate to 55 mph in an area that has become residential/subdivision. He stated the Road Commission indicated the area should be 40 mph, and no neighbors object to the change. He also relayed that Agnes Carter would like the corner with Shimek Road converted to a four-way stop, and asked the board to support these changes.
David Noonan, a farmer, opposed the fire millage, stating it would cost his family an extra $400/month and could force sale of farmland, jeopardizing plans to pass the farm to future generations.
Sandy Noonan questioned whether a conflict of interest exists for someone serving on both the fire board and township board while also being a fire department employee.
Stella Otto voiced support for the fire millage, citing slow ambulance response times affecting family and friends, and suggested another public information session to clarify costs and the funding split between capital and operational expenses.
Steve Yoder reported the County Board approved the apportionment report, noting taxable value has risen about 6% annually over four years, and mentioned county park updates at Myles Kimmerly and Old Settlers Parks.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Steve Yoder noted the County Board is working on updates to Myles Kimmerly and Old Settlers Parks. Supervisor Julian added that the Poor Farm Barn group is seeking improvements, including new restrooms, and called Myles Kimmerly Park "a treasure in the county."
Infrastructure Projects
Road Projects: Supervisor Julian is working with Craig Brown on ongoing road projects, including the Burdickville Road speed limit issue. The board discussed whether the Leelanau County Road Commission (LCRC) could change the road's designation directly or whether a full traffic study by the State Police would be required; the board is willing to pass a supporting resolution once the process is clarified. This will remain a standing agenda item. The Valley Road project begins October 9 and will be extended to fully use designated ARPA funding. No cost figures have yet been received for the Maple City (2026) or Fritz Road (2027) projects; T. Carter and Julian will follow up.
Fire Station: Julian reported successful open houses, with the bond request vote scheduled for November.
Other Business
Cemeteries: Six plots sold at the Cemetery Road cemetery; a new headstone foundation was measured, and corner markers may be placed later this month.
Cedar Fire 2026/27 Budget: A tight, one-year draft budget was presented, not currently using contingency funds. A predicted $60k increase in health insurance costs was noted due to premium increases and added members; the department covers 80% of premiums. Formal board action will occur in November.
Reports: The Planning Commission continues reviewing the Zoning Ordinance and gravel pit berm/planting requirements. The Zoning Administrator noted two land divisions creating 15 parcels from 3. The Fire Board reported a leadership change (Tim Stein replacing John Imboden for Cleveland Township) and approval of a policy for adding entities to the interlocal agreement; Elmwood Township remains interested in joining. Clerk Boomer reported 419 absentee ballots distributed (about 28% of registered voters) and outlined election preparation steps.
Tad Carter asked Treasurer J. Carter to look into splitting township funds across multiple banks. Trustee Noonan asked the County Board to support additional Sheriff's deputies.
Financial Summary
Treasurer's Report: Receipts totaled $1,756,193.91; disbursements totaled $1,538,527.90; ending balance $1,573,813.96. The board approved bills as presented (motion by J. Carter, second by Noonan, all in favor). The 2026/27 Cedar Area Fire & Rescue budget includes a predicted $60,000 increase in health insurance costs; formal approval is expected in November.
Action Items
- Julian to add the Burdickville Road speed limit issue to his list of questions for Craig Brown/LCRC.
- Board to determine whether LCRC can change road designation directly or if a full traffic study is required before considering a supporting resolution.
- T. Carter and Julian to follow up on cost figures for Maple City (2026) and Fritz Road (2027) projects.
- Board to formally address the Cedar Fire 2026/27 budget in November.
- J. Carter to research splitting township funds across multiple banks, per Tad Carter's request.
- Election inspectors to be appointed following this meeting; public accuracy test scheduled later in October; election office hours set for November 2, 8am–4pm.
- Julian and Boomer to schedule hall cleanings and ensure parking lot is clear before/after the election.
- Note: Sandy Noonan raised a potential conflict of interest concern regarding fire board/township board/fire department employment overlap; no resolution recorded.