Summary
The Kasson Township Board met December 10, 2025, with Supervisor Julian presiding and Trustee Tad Carter absent. The board approved the agenda, the November 12 minutes, and the bills as presented. Key actions included adopting Resolution 12-2025 setting the 2026 meeting schedule, appointing Chris Logan to the Board of Review through December 31, 2026, and continuing discussions on road projects, a proposed fire station, and the Burdickville Road speed limit.
Public Comments
No public comment was offered at the start of the meeting. During the later public comment period, Bill Kasben addressed a complaint about hauling gravel off his farm, stating the property description, tax ID, and photos used in the complaint do not match his land. He said he is not selling gravel, is not competing with local gravel pits, and is clearing a hill for future farm use, possibly for a veteran non-profit, under an arrangement where farmers and contractors remove dirt at no cost to him. Boomer suggested a board member work with Kasben and Zoning Administrator Cypher to resolve the issue; Julian agreed to follow up with Cypher.
Steve Yoder reported on County Commission matters: a new software sign-off policy, denial of a proposed sale of a small triangle of property near Old Settlers, ongoing lease discussions for the Poor Farm Barn at Myles Kimmerly, continued efforts to sell an unused communications tower, and approval of a new county auditor contract. Trustee Noonan responded that no alcohol should be allowed on County property.
Infrastructure Projects
Julian reported ongoing work with the Road Commission; numbers for Fritz Road and the remainder of Valley Road are not yet available. The township’s share of the downtown Maple City project is estimated at approximately $35,000, with the county covering sidewalk-related costs and federal funding covering the majority of the project, which includes drainage, water, and paving work. Julian and T. Carter are exploring improved lighting using existing poles.
On the proposed fire station, Julian relayed that Cleveland Township objected to a full-service station but may be open to discussing alternatives. The board noted an ambulance-only station would not meet EMS goals, since staffing would require living quarters, an office, a workout area, and a fire suppression system, and about 35% of Cedar’s calls are non-EMS. The board asked Cleveland Township for a more detailed proposal of what they would support or remove from current plans.
On Burdickville Road, the LCRC stated current speed limit signage is correct; a formal speed study will be conducted in spring before any resolution is considered.
Financial Summary
The Treasurer’s Report showed receipts of $50,574.55, disbursements of $67,033.03, and a balance of $919,936.02. Boomer presented the November budget report; she and Nelson will draft the 2026/27 budget for January board discussion. Bills were approved as presented (J. Carter moved, Noonan seconded, all in favor).
Other Business
The board approved Resolution 12-2025 establishing the 2026 meeting schedule (roll call: J. Carter, Noonan, Boomer, Julian all yes). Andria Metrakos Bufka will stop providing PC/ZBA recording secretary services after February; Boomer is coordinating a joint notice with Leland’s clerk. Chris Logan was appointed to the Board of Review through 2026. Reports were given by the Planning Commission (gravel pit SUP renewal hearing scheduled), Zoning Administrator (cease-and-desist letter sent regarding unpermitted aggregate removal on Tower Road), Assessor (December BoR meeting cancelled; March dates set), Fire Board (2026/27 budget approved by all four townships; discussion of an Administrative/Assistant Chief position), and Clerk/Elections (procedural election audit scheduled, plus fire extinguisher and security system maintenance).
Action Items
- Boomer and Nelson to prepare a draft 2026/27 budget for January board discussion.
- Julian to follow up with Zoning Administrator Cypher regarding Bill Kasben’s gravel complaint.
- Board members to seek candidates for the PC/ZBA recording secretary position; Boomer coordinating a joint notice with Leland’s clerk.
- Julian to inform Board of Review Chair Mike Shimek of Logan’s appointment and seek input on potential alternates.
- LCRC to conduct a speed study on Burdickville Road in spring 2026.
- A resolution to set the annual meeting date will be considered in January.