The Whitehall Township Board held its regular monthly meeting on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. at the Township Hall. With all board members present, the meeting proceeded with a full agenda covering financial updates, infrastructure projects, library developments, and community planning discussions. Highlights included approval of a corrected sewer billing resolution, a detailed quarterly financial report, a budget amendment tied to recent land sales and development, and initial talks of a boundary adjustment with Montague Township. The meeting reflected the board’s continued focus on fiscal responsibility, community services, and long-term planning.
Public Comment
Ruth Grenell, Whitehall Township’s appointed representative to the White Lake Community Library Board, delivered an enthusiastic update:
- The library celebrates its 25th anniversary this fall and continues to see significant use year-round.
- Improvements include a new canopy entryway, upgraded meeting room furniture, and restriped parking.
- A major highlight was securing an $80,000 state grant for rooftop solar panels, helping to offset energy costs.
- Creative programming continues to engage the public, such as scavenger hunts, summer reading themes, and community-oriented resources like the “bike mobile” and story trail.
Ruth emphasized the library’s positive community impact and welcomed board members to contact her with any questions or input.
Announcements and Communications
- All 56 properties involved in the Silver Creek water extension project are now connected.
- A communication from Charter announced an upcoming rate increase.
Unfinished Business
Resolution 25-13 Correction:
The board amended the sewer rate increase resolution to reflect a new effective date of July 1 to align with the start of the billing cycle, resolving an administrative timing issue. The amendment passed unanimously.
New Business
Quarterly Treasurer’s Report:
Treasurer Madge Kraai detailed the township’s financial position for Q1 of the fiscal year, covering April 1 to June 23. Key highlights included:
- General Fund balance declined from $95,561 to $28,656.
- Two significant land sales (Consumers and Harbor Light) boosted revenues.
- Interest income and revenue sharing totaled over $32,000.
- A CD was partially withdrawn to support sewer infrastructure work, with plans to reinvest it soon.
Madge shared printed and digital copies with the board and noted that future reports will aim to cover full calendar quarters.
Budget Amendment #1:
Reflecting property sales, legal fees, and anticipated revenue from new sewer connections, the board approved adjustments to both income and expense lines. The amendment also accounted for upcoming development near Walmart and Brownfield reimbursements.
Resolution 25-15 – Dual Check Signatures:
This resolution aimed to standardize financial practices by requiring dual signatures on all township checks. However, language in the resolution raised concerns over ambiguity in designating who can sign. The resolution was tabled for revision and will return next month.
Disc Golf Course Rental Request:
A group requested exclusive use of the disc golf course for one day in August, as permitted by township ordinance. Concerns were raised about cleanup logistics, but the board agreed the existing policy is sufficient and authorized the request informally with no vote required.
Tree Removal at Pickleball Court:
A large oak tree posing a risk to the pickleball courts will be removed by township resident John Boyd for $1,000. The board approved the motion, with a potential cost share from the pickleball group.
Board Comments and Future Planning
Supervisor Dennis Kroll shared news of potential boundary adjustments between Whitehall and Montague Townships. A proposed land swap would align jurisdictional boundaries along the White River to improve road maintenance responsibilities, 911 response clarity, and voting logistics. The board expressed support for continued discussions and further research on the matter.
Additionally, the new zoning enforcement officer has begun issuing cleanup notices for abandoned vehicles and junk—a key concern in the township.
As the meeting concluded, board members expressed appreciation for continued community engagement and reaffirmed their commitment to proactive planning, transparency, and responsible stewardship of township resources. Next meeting will be July 28, 2025.
Whitehall Township Board Meeting Recap – May 27, 2025
