The Montague Township Board held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Township Hall. The session covered updates on community projects, insurance considerations, planning efforts, ordinance discussions, and departmental reports.
Agenda & Minutes
The board approved the agenda with one addition under New Business (item 7A — alternate appointment to Solid Waste) and accepted the September 9, 2025 meeting minutes.
Old Business
Park Work Bee
Board members reported strong turnout for the Clear Springs work bee, with six new picnic tables delivered and placed. Volunteers also installed chains and locks, cleared brush around the dam, and added chicken wire for safety. The improvements significantly enhanced the park’s appearance and usability.
Outside Dropbox
The purchase of a Dropbox for non-ballot use was approved at the September 9 meeting. At the October 14 meeting, board members noted they are still looking at options.
Maple Syrup Production Proposal
Following consultation with the township’s insurance provider and underwriters, the board declined a proposal to allow maple syrup production under the park shelter. Liability risks and lack of insurance coverage made the project unsuitable for township property.
Master Plan Update
The Master Plan Committee recently held its kickoff meeting. Consultants outlined a project timeline, goals, and survey plans. Draft chapters are being revised and will be reviewed incrementally by the board, keeping members up to speed ahead of final approval next year. A December 8 meeting is scheduled for the first chapter reviews. The plan will eventually align with recreation planning, aimed at supporting the White River Trail project by 2027.
New Business
Alternate to Solid Waste
With a board member unavailable, Jay was appointed as alternate representative to the Solid Waste committee.
AI Ordinance Draft
The board reviewed a draft ordinance addressing potential large-scale AI data center developments. Members discussed proactive zoning and resource considerations — particularly extreme water usage and noise — to protect township infrastructure. While no proposals are pending, the ordinance aims to establish guidelines in advance.
Board Reports
Fire Department
The department participated in the Fire Prevention Parade, completed utility truck upgrades, and planned training burns.
Ambulance Service
Operations remain stable. Fruitland Township has requested a service proposal to potentially resume coverage through Montague Township after several years. A one-year contract is under consideration to evaluate capacity before any longer-term commitments.
Clerk & Treasurer Reports
The board approved invoices payable totaling $7,591.73, covering website services, landscaping, QuickBooks software, and pensions. The treasurer’s report reflected a healthy financial position with over $484,000 in available assets.
Comments & Adjournment
- Senior Millage Plan: Officially approved and documented for 2025.
- Blight Enforcement: Board members expressed frustration with the lack of visible progress on a condemned property across from Jay’s residence.
- Next Meeting: Scheduled for November 11, 2025, at Township Hall.
The meeting concluded efficiently, with several action items advanced and updates shared across key township initiatives.
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