During a productive evening meeting, the Montague Township Board addressed a variety of topics, from updates on ongoing projects and future plans for township facilities to discussions about community safety and infrastructure improvements.
Agenda Approved; December Minutes Accepted
The meeting began with the board approving the agenda and accepting the minutes from the December 9, 2025, meeting without any significant changes or additions.
Additionally, AAA Lawn Care was added to the agenda for discussion.
Old Business
Planning Commission Update
The board revisited their ongoing efforts to create a zoning ordinance that would protect the township from the potential impacts of large-scale projects, including issues related to noise and energy generation. The discussion included input from Planning Commission members, who are working on refining the verbiage to effectively address these concerns. Further consultation with external sources is expected, with the goal of presenting an ordinance for review at the next meeting.
Road Improvements
The board discussed the possibility of continuing road improvements this year, specifically focusing on areas in dire need of repair. Board members debated the best course of action, with a focus on prioritizing major thoroughfares and ensuring that the available budget allows for meaningful upgrades.
New Business
Playground Area and Tennis Courts
The board introduced discussions about upgrading the local park facilities, including the addition of a playground area and improvements to the tennis courts. With approximately $480,000 in funds available, the township is exploring options to apply for grants to supplement the cost of these projects. Several ideas were brought forward, including enhancing the soccer fields and expanding the park’s parking facilities.
Audit Update
The board reviewed the F65 audit, which has been filed and available for review. No significant issues were reported, and the audit process was described as routine, with the necessary documentation already in place.
AAA Lawn Care Service Renewal
The board voted to approve the renewal of the AAA Lawn Care contract, which will include fertilizing services for the township’s fields in 2026. The company has been praised for its reliable service, particularly for its work maintaining the soccer and football fields. The contract, totaling $6,277, includes a prepayment discount of $350.
Board Reports
Fire Department
The Fire Department reported a busy period, with increased call volumes compared to the previous year. The department’s new truck has been in service and is already proving invaluable, particularly for responding to emergencies in hard-to-reach areas. Staffing levels and response times continue to improve, thanks to the addition of part-time staff.
Ambulance Authority
The White Lake Ambulance Authority is seeing a rise in activity, and discussions are ongoing about potentially adding more coverage in Fruitland Township. While the idea has been well received, disagreements over funding methods have delayed any formal decisions.
Clerk’s Office
Invoices totaling $23,410.90 were approved, covering a range of services, including fuel, planning consultant fees, and election-related expenses.
Treasurer’s Report
The Treasurer provided an update on the township’s financials, with a general fund balance of $81,000 and an investment balance of $487,000 in Michigan CLASS. The senior millage fund stands at $21,300, with ongoing discussions about how best to allocate these funds to community projects and services.
Community Updates
The board discussed the increasing issue of snowmobilers using township fields and along with others leaving behind garbage, including personal waste in public dumpsters. Efforts to track down the offenders are ongoing, with some progress made in identifying the responsible parties.
The next Montague Township Board meeting is scheduled for February 10, 2025.
Montague Township Board Meeting Recap – December 9, 2025
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