A work session of the Fruitport Charter Township Board began at 6:30pm on Monday, September 13, 2021, in the township board room.
Members Present: Todd Dunham, Supervisor; Andrea Anderson, Clerk; Rose Dillon, Treasurer; Trustees Jim Fichtel, Greg Hulka, Terry Knoll, David Markgraf
Members Absent: none
At 7:00pm, Todd Dunham opened the regular meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Also Present: 25- residents; 3- employees; 0- guests; Public Safety Director, Brian Michelli; Director of Public Utilities, Steve Biesiada.
The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Rose Dillon was carried unanimously, to approve the minutes of August 23, 2021 as presented.
The motion by Andrea Anderson, seconded by Terry Knoll was carried unanimously, to approve the agenda as presented with the following additions requested by the DPW Director and Supervisor:
Add item 8-D: Resolution Approving Refunding Contract
Add item 8-E: First Reading Floodplain Management Provisions of the State Construction Code Amendment Ordinance
CORRESPONDENCE / REPORTS:
- Steve Biesiada shared that the new administrative assistant started September 7th and is doing well; the West Michigan Regional Water Authority is having upgrades done on the Smiley water tower to comply with EGLE and the cost is approximately $14,500.
- Brian Michelli would like to remind the community to lock their vehicles to avoid unlawful entries; the water department found a water leak underground and the fire department staff is working to remedy the situation.
- Todd Dunham shared that the Board of Determination regarding the Kuis Drain determined further work is not necessary to resolve the problem petitioned for; the Lion’s Club mint street corner mint sale will be September 17th.
- Rose Dillon reported that 163 Fruitport Township seniors benefited from the Senior Power of Produce program at the Muskegon Farmer’s Market and that the program has been funded by the City of Muskegon to be able to run through the end of September.
PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS:
- Susan Halter shared information regarding the success of the Dancing into Sunset events and requested future senior millage funding to support the events. She also shared photographs of the events and positive written comments from participants.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
21-075 Performance and Indemnification Resolution
The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by Todd Dunham, was carried unanimously, to TABLE this topic until response is received from the Muskegon County Road Commission.
NEW BUSINESS:
21-076 Deliver Oath to Part-Time Firefighter
Brian Meister was sworn in by the Clerk.
21-077 Senior Funding Request for Dancing into Sunset
Susan Halter, creator of Dancing into Sunset, is requesting an allocation of $500-$5,000 from the 2022 senior millage funding to support the Dancing into Sunset events. Approximately 20 guests were in attendance to support Susan’s efforts.
The board was thankful for the information and expressed that they will take it into consideration at the time of 2022 funds allocation when all presented options have been presented and considered.
21-078 Request for Kiwanis Peanut Sales
The Kiwanis International Club has requested permission to have their street corner peanut sale fundraiser on September 24th and 25th at Dangl/Sternberg. They will provide proof of liability insurance.
The motion by Rose Dillon, seconded by Greg Hulka was carried unanimously, to approve the request.
21-079 Resolution Approving Refunding Contract with West Michigan Regional Water Authority
Bendzinski & Co., Municipal Finance Advisors, have advised the township that the current conditions in the bond market could permit a portion of the 2014 Water Supply System bonds to be refunded at a significant interest savings. The DPW Director shared that the township could see a savings of approximately $20,000.
Terry Knoll moved, David Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to adopt the resolution approving the Refunding Contract.
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None
21-080 First Reading: Floodplain Management Provisions of the State Construction Code Amendment Ordinace
This ordinance would revise the designation of regulated flood prone hazard areas.
This constitutes the first reading. Final action will take place at the next regular scheduled board meeting on September 27, 2021.
21-081 Payment of Bills
Terry Knoll moved, David Markgraf seconded, MOTION CARRIED, to approve bills as presented for payment in the following amounts: General Fund $29,052.25; Public Safety $38,319.52; Water $164,666.90; Sewer $21,294.48; Trust & Agency $1,200.00; Street Lights $13,153.43
Totaling: $267,686.58
Ayes: Markgraf, Knoll, Anderson, Dunham, Dillon, Hulka, Fichtel
Nays: None
ADDITIONAL REPORTS:
- Rose Dillon shared the deadline to pay property taxes without penalty is tomorrow, September 14, 2021.
- Todd Dunham shared that roadway flags will be ordered soon and hopes to have them up for Veterans Day.
PUBLIC COMMENTS PART II: none
The motion by Terry Knoll, seconded by David Markgraf, was carried unanimously, to adjourn the meeting at 7:53pm.
ANDREA ANDERSON, CLERK
TODD DUNHAM, SUPERVISOR