Summary
The Solon Township Board held a regular meeting on May 9, 2024, where significant discussions included road infrastructure, public safety concerns regarding proposed events, and the approval of various financial expenditures. A key decision was to extend a Rotary Grant for park improvements, and the hiring of a new Zoning Administrator was also approved. The meeting facilitated public comments, particularly around zoning issues, and reviewed several ongoing and new projects related to parks and recreation.
Public Comments
Jon Zelinski raised concerns over the rezoning of his property on Allgaier Road back to Business-2, citing no substantial opposition other than concerns about increased traffic. There was a consensus that the issue would need to go before the Planning Commission for further consideration.
Rachel Barnard from Heartwood Ciders expressed appreciation for the hiring of Christina Deeren as the new Zoning Administrator. Mary Taylor thanked the board for their continued support of the Parks Committee.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Mary Taylor provided an update for the Parks and Recreation Committee, highlighting the successful park cleanup event with approximately 20 volunteers. She requested the board extend the Rotary Grant, which was approved, to avoid returning over $3,000. Additionally, the committee outlined future projects including hiring contractors for insect control, installing a moveable gate at the playground, and improving sanitation facilities at the parks. The board authorized advancing plans for these improvements.
Infrastructure Projects
Brendan Mullane from the Leelanau County Road Commission presented on road conditions and mentioned the potential need to decertify Railroad Street for safety concerns related to fire department access. He also noted that the Road Commission would no longer participate in a 50% cost-sharing agreement for road repairs. Further discussions will involve contacting DNR regarding the dock issue at Perrins Landing.
Other Business
Various additional agenda items were discussed, including contract approvals with the Cedar Chamber of Commerce being temporarily on hold pending further clarification on the lease agreements. The board decided to test the waters before making these agreements official. They also initiated the audit process with Tobin and Company at a cost of $3,600.
Financial Summary
Treasurer Joan Gauthier provided a comprehensive financial report detailing various fund balances and expenditures. Highlights include:
- Total current assets: $612,226.37
- Approval to allocate ARPA funds for urgent repairs to the township hall at a cost of $2,983.53.
- Payment of vouchers totaling from #15420 to #15456 for routine township expenses.
Action Items
1. **Planning Commission**: Address Jon Zelinski’s request for rezoning; initiate review process.
2. **Parks Committee**: Approve the extended Rotary Grant and prioritize the proposed park improvements.
3. **Public Safety**: Engage further with the Polka Fest Foundation regarding event guarantees and public safety measures.
4. **Audit Approval**: Execute the audit with Tobin and Company for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024.
5. **Infrastructure**: Assess potential safety measures for Railroad Street and communicate further with DNR regarding dock regulations.