Master Plan Update in Motion
Williams & Works was present to discuss their proposal to update the Township’s 1997 Master Plan. No decision yet — board members are reviewing the proposal, with a special meeting likely, as not all board members had reviewed proposal .
Clear Springs Dam Discussion
Board members reviewed four options for addressing the failing small dam. Tracy Korthase, Treasurer, proposed partially lowering the water level by removing boards — this low-cost solution may move forward pending a quote from White Lake Excavating.
Recreation Project Ideas Funded by Timber Proceeds
Trustees discussed park improvements using timber-harvesting funds:
- Tracy Korthase suggested picnic tables and benches at Clear Springs and Henderson and updates to some township signage.
- Jay Goodrich proposed wildflower planting and safer steps by the lower pond.
Senior Millage Funds Approved
Board approved upgrades including:
- New shuffleboard covers
- 163 emergency-response address signs (127 installed to date)
- New TVs for township facilities
- Part of remaining funds earmarked for the senior center
Ramp & Railing Project Approved
The board unanimously approved DG Fab LLC to install ADA-compliant handrails using senior funds.
Basketball Court Upgrades Explored
Trustees discussed removing underused tennis courts and expanding the basketball area. Ideas for future grant funding and public input were floated.
Poverty Exemption Resolution Amended
Redundant language removed to comply with State guidelines.
This was unanimously approved.
Discussion Highlights
Parks & Facilities
- Replacing faded “Welcome to Montague Township” signs on Walsh and Hancock Roads was discussed as a potential improvement
- Fence at township park being damaged; residents want more access points.
Elections
- August 5 election saw 187 total voters, including 147 absentee.
- Township supported the countywide library millage, which passed by a narrow margin.
Liability Concerns
- Timber-harvested areas showing signs of recreational use (horses, ATVs).
- Board acknowledged potential liability risk, but coverage is in place.
Community Engagement for Master Plan
- Williams & Works strongly recommended a digital survey and more outreach (e.g., at events like Pumpkin Fest).
- Township received only 17 responses to the last online survey.
Board & Department Reports
- White Lake Fire Authority:
Bob Sweets reappointed as member-at-large.
Staffing policy updates underway. - White Lake Ambulance:
117 calls in June (73 billable). Staffing levels continue to improve.
Looking Ahead
- Special meeting likely to finalize decision on hiring Williams & Works for the township Master Plan.
- White Lake Excavating will be contacted for a Clear Springs dam solution quote.
- Ramp installation to proceed with DG Fab LLC.
Next Meeting: September 9, 2025, 7 p.m. — Montague Township Hall
