The Montague Township Board convened for its regular meeting on June 10, 2025, covering a wide range of updates and decisions on township operations, budgeting, and future projects.
Old Business
Senior Millage
1The board discussed plans to offer green address markers to senior residents through a newsletter sign-up.
Community Improvements
- Plans are underway to install new handrails on the Township Hall ramp.
- Clear Springs Nature Preserve cleanup is complete, with consideration for planting wildflowers.
- The board reviewed options to address a likely corroded underground pipe at Clear Springs causing sinkholes. Two solutions were discussed: installing a new bypass pipe with sheet piling reinforcement, or eliminating the spillway and creating a natural riffle. Further cost estimates and recommendations are pending.
Solar Ordinance
- The ordinance is complete; the board will continue monitoring legislative changes that may impact future adjustments.
Soccer Complex Enhancements
- Options were presented to remove trees to expand field space and parking.
- Efforts are underway to make drinking fountains operational with necessary electrical work.
- The board discussed handling the recent discovery of the hemlock woolly adelgid at Henderson Park and Clear Springs.
TV Display Proposal
- Clerk Drew Roesler presented a proposal for two wall-mounted TVs with wireless HDMI capability to aid in board presentations and community events.
- After discussion, the board approved moving forward with the $2,800 proposal from CatchMark Technologies, with installation to be coordinated around board availability.
IT Service Proposal
The board reviewed a new IT services proposal from CatchMark Technologies, offering options for pay-as-needed support or a monthly service plan. The proposal includes hardware and software support, but Microsoft Office licenses would remain a separate expense. The board opted to take more time to review the proposal before making a decision.
Chip Seal – Walsh Road
- The board approved moving forward with the Walsh Road chip seal project in the next fiscal year.
New Business
Drain Commission Update
- Stephanie Bartlett from the Drain Commission will update the board on maintenance related to the Montague Drain, including the Buttermilk Creek area.
Budget Hearing & Adoption
- The board reviewed and approved the 2025-2026 budget, reflecting estimated receipts of $364,374 and expenditures of $315,455.
- Budget highlights include increased support for parks and grounds (specifically soccer fields), necessary equipment purchases, and election staff raises.
Millage Rate
- The board voted to maintain the current millage rate at 1.1500.
Equipment Purchase
- The board approved purchasing a wire tracer (up to $2,000) to assist with ongoing electrical maintenance and mapping at township parks.
Master Plan & Recreation Plan
- The Planning Commission is seeking cost-effective options for updating the township’s Master Plan and Recreation Plan. Two quotes have been received ranging from $16,000 to $44,000.
- A community survey is being developed to gather public input on recreational needs.
Boundary Discussion with Blue Lake Township
- The board discussed exploring boundary adjustments for certain properties along Weesies Road and Silver Creek Road to better align emergency service delivery and maintenance responsibilities.
Board Reports
Montague Fire Department
- The department is preparing for Electric Forest with limited staffing.
- Three new firefighters have been certified.
- The board approved funding for part-time staffing to improve daytime coverage.
White Lake Ambulance
- The ambulance service millage was reduced slightly from 1.7 to 1.65 mills while maintaining service levels.
- Raises were approved for staff to comply with upcoming minimum wage requirements.
Solid Waste Authority
- No updates reported this month; a budget meeting is scheduled.
Treasurer’s Report & Invoices
- The board approved the Treasurer’s report and authorized payment of invoices totaling $12,338.11.
Final Notes
- Upcoming projects include purchasing new picnic tables for the parks using spring donations.
- The board is also monitoring software and equipment updates related to election services.
Next Meeting:
July 8, 2025, at Montague Township Hall, 7 p.m.
