The Whitehall Township Board convened for its regular meeting on April 28, 2025, covering a range of important township updates, community partnerships, financial matters, and infrastructure improvements.
Meeting Highlights:
Agenda Approval and Public Comment
The meeting opened with the approval of the agenda, followed by a public comment session. Phil Haine, President of the White Lake Pickleball Club, introduced himself and expressed gratitude for the township’s partnership. Haine shared updates about the club’s growth and new communication efforts, including a forthcoming website.
Consent Agenda Approved
The Board approved the consent agenda, which included accounts payable, financials, a zoning report, and minutes from the March 24, 2025, regular meeting and budget hearing. A discussion clarified that while payroll checks were missing from the initial packet, payroll remains pre-approved and will be correctly reported.
Announcements and Communications
Updates included a letter regarding the Silver Creek water extension project and reports from the township library. The board was also asked to suggest topics for a future township newsletter and review county fee comparisons for upcoming discussions.
Public Official Update
Kim Cederholm, Muskegon County Commissioner for District 1, spoke about a newly passed $6.9 million bond to update Baker College’s campus facilities. She also shared resources from West Michigan Works highlighting career opportunities in high-demand industries.
Unfinished Business: Audit Services
The Board revisited its discussion on audit services. While there was interest in switching to the firm Brinkley and DeLong for a more comprehensive team audit approach, concerns about cost and timing with the ongoing BS&A software transition led to a vote against the change. The township will continue with its current auditor, while recognizing the need for more responsive service.
New Business: Facility and Infrastructure Improvements
- Pickleball Court Repairs
The Board approved the purchase of two new pickleball posts at a cost of $940.21 to replace a broken post and have a spare available.
- Playground Surface Maintenance
Approval was given to refresh the township’s playground mulch at a cost of $1,800, ensuring continued safety and quality for community children.
- Standby Generator for Township Hall
Recognizing the township’s frequent power outages and the critical need for election reliability, the Board approved the purchase of a standby generator from Courtade & Sons for $17,010.23, using funds already budgeted for this purpose.
Financial Resolutions Passed
- Resolution 25-12: Delinquent Tax Status – Mobile Home Village
The Board passed a resolution to attach delinquent sewer connection and usage charges totaling over $90,000 to the July tax bill for the Mobile Home Village, addressing longstanding unpaid obligations.
- Resolution 25-13: Sewer Rate Increase
After a detailed review by township staff, the Board approved raising sewer rates from $96 to $133 per single unit. This increase responds to a 23% rise in Muskegon County’s sewer charges and ensures the township can fund future maintenance and system expansions.
Additional Reports and Updates
- ARPA Reporting
The township has completed and submitted its required reports under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
- Financial Reconciliation Efforts
Work continues to reconcile discrepancies between QuickBooks and the township’s real financial position, aiming for greater transparency and accuracy.
- Phone System Update
A new phone system installation is underway to improve service for township residents.
Closing Remarks
The meeting concluded with public and board comments, including maintenance updates at the pickleball courts and appreciation for the township staff’s hard work, particularly in handling complex sewer system management.
The next regular board meeting is scheduled for May 27, 2025.
