9/12/2024 - Solon Township | Regular Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Solon Township Board held a regular meeting on September 12, 2024, where several key decisions and outcomes were reached. The agenda was approved, and minutes from the previous meeting were accepted. Public comments highlighted concerns about high fees for lot line adjustments. Financial reports were presented and accepted, which included various fund balances. The meeting covered committee reports on planning and parks, as well as discussions about township hall repairs and new business, including the adoption of a natural hazard mitigation plan.

Public Comments

Melvin Black voiced concerns regarding high fees for lot line adjustments, specifically referencing a $500 fee which he found excessive compared to neighboring townships. He requested the board reconsider these fees, and hopes it will be addressed in the next meeting agenda.

Parks and Recreation Matters

Mary Taylor reported on the Parks and Recreation Committee's meeting, which addressed the need for policy reviews, plans to return black willow seedlings, and the completion of a design for a Community Park sign pending cost approval. Additionally, there was a suggestion to use cement pillars instead of posts at Vlack’s Park for better mobility. The committee planned to hold their next meeting on September 24, 2024.

Infrastructure Projects

A discussion on the Township Hall repair and maintenance included evaluations of plumbing issues and plans for moving files to facilitate office remodels. Steve Yoder presented updates on contract agreements with Leelanau Construction for township office renovations. The board agreed to proceed with wall repairs without a permit fee due to it being a township project.

Other Business

New business included the purchase of a tabulator for election processes, an operational millage vote, and adoption of a natural hazard mitigation plan to ensure eligibility for federal disaster recovery aid. The board also accepted a resignation from Todd Yeomans from the Planning Commission.

Financial Summary

The Treasurer’s report indicated: - Total General Funds Available: $355,009.40 - Approval to pay vouchers (#15604-15640) from various funds. - The cost of a new election tabulator at $7,493.00 was approved, which will be funded by the election budget. - Allocation of operational millage was approved at 0.5499 and fire/ambulance millage at 2.5000.

Action Items

- Reconsideration of lot line adjustment fees to be placed on the next meeting agenda as requested by Melvin Black. - Follow-up on the planting of seedlings as requested by Parks Committee. - Further exploration of solutions for township hall repair and maintenance issues. - Completion of contract signing with Leelanau Construction for township offices by Supervisor Jim Lautner. - Public outreach regarding the painting of the Solon Schoolhouse to be conducted by the neighborhood.