MONTAGUE TWP. — Montague Township will hire Williams & Works to update its Master Plan and craft a Parks & Recreation Plan, a move officials say will unlock grant opportunities and guide projects from trails to park upgrades. The board set a not-to-exceed cap of $30,000 for the planning work during Tuesday’s meeting.
Why it matters
Township leaders said an updated Parks & Rec Plan is required for several state grants and will help coordinate with neighboring communities on long-discussed trail connections. “Let the experts do what they’re good at,” one member said, noting the plans will consolidate surveys and public engagement to save time.
Clear Springs: interim repairs now, bigger fix later
The board approved a contractor to remove roots, add topsoil and address suspected trouble spots near the Clear Springs dam area. Officials acknowledged a likely pipe breach and called the work “more than a temporary fix, but not yet permanent,” adding that engineering and funding will be needed for a full solution.
A recent incident with an unauthorized campsite prompted cleanup and a reminder: no camping at Clear Springs. A missing “No Camping” sign on the south side will be replaced.
Residents push for durable road work
Residents Jerry and Diane Gardner urged a longer-lasting solution for Lamos Road north of Meinert, with Sikkenga Road also cited for heavy wear from emergency vehicles and farm equipment. Board members said they’ll coordinate with the Road Commission on priorities and shared segments but noted the township lacks a dedicated road millage. Large resurfacing projects remain difficult without new revenue.
Parks & people
Park maintenance formalized
After years of informal help, the board voted to compensate Tracy Korthase for park upkeep at $15/hour with time sheets. “If we’d hire someone to do it, we should pay for it,” members said.
After-hours payments
Prompted by a driver for a property-management company who stopped in to drop off a tax check, the township will price a secure outdoor drop box for after-hours payments and documents and report back with options.
Community Sugarbush request
The Montague Commoners asked to use the Township Park pavilion for their February–April 2026 community maple-syrup “sugarbush,” with straw-bale windbreaks and the stove outside the pavilion. The board was supportive but said proof of insurance and participant waivers will be required; staff will consult the township insurer and follow up.
To find out more about the Montague Commoners, read our article here.
White Lake Adult Soccer’s first season: “a success”
Organizers Kyle Bartlett and Jeff Greve reported 13 teams, 200+ players, and 50–100 weekly spectators in the co-ed adult league’s debut. With late sponsors, the league broke even and plans to return in 2026. They may explore moving to the soccer complex (with field-rotation planning); if not, the softball fields worked well. One practical note: mowing close to game days improves safety on fast-growing turf.
Public safety & finances
- Prepare Fair: County Commissioner Kim Cyr invited families to the 2025 Prepare Fair at Heritage Landing, Mon., Sept. 30, 4–7 p.m., featuring emergency responders, equipment, and activities; the Michigan State Police helicopter is expected.
- Fire/EMS: The fire department has logged 337 runs year-to-date (through Aug. 28). The Ambulance Authority millage renewal will be on the fall ballot.
- Money matters: August brought about $28,000 in revenue sharing. The board discussed transferring $100,000 to Michigan CLASS to leverage yields. Routine utilities and a deposit for previously approved park railings will be paid.
Blight & code updates
Cleanup continues at a property on Old 31; the township plans a supportive letter encouraging progress. A Fruitvale Rd. barn apartment built without permits is being addressed. Additional nuisance properties are under watch.
What’s next
- Williams & Works to launch master/parks-rec planning.
- Staff to bring back drop box pricing and insurance/waiver guidance for the sugarbush.
- Sept. 27, 10 a.m.: community work bee at North Park.
Next board meeting: Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, 7:00 p.m., Montague Township Hall.
Montague Township Board Meeting Recap – August 12, 2025
