The Whitehall Township Board convened on Monday, August 25, 2025, covering a wide range of issues from zoning fees to speed limits, and welcoming a new township treasurer.
Meeting Opened and Agenda Approved
The board opened with routine motions, quickly approving the evening’s agenda by unanimous roll call vote. No official announcements or communications were made at the start.
County Commissioner Update
Muskegon County Commissioner Kim Cyr shared updates from West Michigan Works. He highlighted the availability of the “Hot Jobs” list, which showcases 100 high-demand occupations in the region. Each listing includes pay ranges, education/training requirements, and demand levels. QR codes on the handout link directly to job details and videos explaining each career path. Foster encouraged members to share the list with young people exploring employment opportunities.
Old Business: Zoning Fees Discussion
The board revisited the topic of zoning and building fees, debating whether proposed increases were too steep. Some members expressed concern that the rates appeared significantly higher than those in neighboring communities. Township staff clarified that the proposed fees were based on comparisons and consolidations of multiple charges into simpler categories. Ultimately, the board approved the updated fee schedule, with members acknowledging that while some increases seemed large, the actual impact on construction projects would remain relatively small.
New Business
Pickleball Courts Electrical Upgrades
A request was approved to add electrical service to the township’s pickleball courts. Funded entirely through donations, the project will install outlets in the storage shed for charging battery-powered maintenance equipment and add a pole-mounted outlet for use during tournaments. The board praised the pickleball community for its proactive stewardship and approved the project cost, plus required permits.
Speed Limit Concerns on Wixom Drive
Residents on Wiczer Drive raised concerns about speeding. Missing or damaged speed limit signs have fueled unsafe driving. However, the board discussed that townships cannot simply post speed limits without a traffic study. State law requires speeds to reflect the “85th percentile” — essentially the speed most drivers already travel. Officials explored borrowing unused equipment from the City of Whitehall, such as speed trailers, to collect traffic data before making formal changes. While signs could be posted at the township’s expense, they would not be enforceable without the study. The board agreed to investigate further options before committing to new signage.
Appointment of New Township Treasurer
The board unanimously approved the appointment of Rhonda Boyd as the new Township Treasurer. Boyd was described as highly qualified and will shadow outgoing staff to ensure a smooth transition.
Salary Resolution
The board adopted Resolution 25-17, formally setting salaries for the Supervisor, Clerk, Treasurer, and Trustees. This action brings pay adjustments in line with the fiscal year budget.
Other Updates and Public Comments
- COVID-era ARPA Funds: The township confirmed that its allocation has been fully spent, though final closeout reporting remains pending.
- Blue Lake Township Road Repairs: Blue Lake officials approached Whitehall Township about cost-sharing for repairs on Hyde Park Road, where five Whitehall Township properties are affected. Whitehall Township officials agreed the road is in poor condition but decided to delay a decision until county-wide road priority assessments are completed. Members suggested that special assessments remain the most practical funding path for such projects.
- Ambulance Authority: The township confirmed that the ambulance service millage renewal will appear on the November 2025 ballot. This is a renewal only, not an increase.
Adjournment
After discussion on roads, funding strategies, and future assessments, the board concluded the meeting with no further public comments.
✅ Key Takeaways:
- Township fees updated after debate on fairness.
- Pickleball courts will get electrical service, fully funded by donations.
- Speeding concerns require traffic studies before enforceable changes.
- Rhonda Boyd appointed as Township Treasurer.
- Ambulance service millage renewal set for November ballot.
