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Township Board Meeting Minutes August 2021

AUGUST 2, 2021 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER:   Supervisor Jay Fish called the Regular Board meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. at the Arvon Township fire hall on August 2, 2021.

ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS PRESENT: Jay Fish-Supervisor, Krystal Eliason-Treasurer, Lisa Marinich-Clerk, Robert Janda-Trustee , Chris Walmhoff-Trustee.

MINUTES APPROVAL: Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Janda to approve the July 5, 2021 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL: Marinich motioned, seconded by Eliason to approve the agenda.   All in favor, motion passed.

PUBLIC COMMENT:  Linnea Barron thanked everyone that turned out for the Master Plan meeting.  It gave Jason McCarthy a lot to work on. 

OLD BUSINESS:  Leslie Elmblad was present, he explained that the Kallio fund is in good shape.  The fund is donating $1,500.00 to the township towards the spring clean-up.  He also is concerned with all the stumps at the cemetery.  The Kallio fund would be interested in paying half to hire Tikky’s Tree Service for the removal of 63 or so stumps and 2 tree removals.  The estimated cost would be $3,900.00.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Janda to approve splitting the bill for the removal of the stumps and trees at the cemetery.  All in favor, motion passed.   Leslie Elmblad would like to look into topsoil for the cemetery soon also.

– After discussion, the Township board is going to resend on paying the ORV program $3,000.00 as for now. Marinich motioned, seconded by Janda.  All in favor, motion passed.  The board agreed to have Wahmhoff submit a bill to the township for time he spent on behalf of Arvon Township.

-Concerns of the large rocks that were moved at Point Abbaye, people are driving right to the point now.  Baraga County was dong a project there, they may be putting them back when they are complete.

-Concerns of what Arvon Township is going to do about the dust control on the roads.  There is nothing in place as of now, it costs approximately $14.00 a bag for chloride that will take care of approximately 30 ft.  This will be discussed next spring.  Possibly a 50/50 split between the resident and the township.  

NEW BUSINESS:  Mr. Grant was present at the meeting with concerns with people that are living on Karcshney Rd.  He lives close to them, doesn’t feel safe.  Sheriff Brogan was at the meeting, let him know that the sheriff’s department did get out there, they claim it was an accident. 

-Eliason motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve hiring Rukkila to do the townships F-65 annual form.  All in favor, motion passed.

JAMES FEDIE:

MAIL CALL:   

TREASURER’S REPORT: Eliason gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$309,180.55 Ambulance/EMT Fund-$38,624.95 Fire Fund-$224,040.07 Liquor Fund-$480.16, Road Fund-$70,271.81. Janda motioned, seconded by Wamhofff to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.      

BILL APPROVAL:  Eliason motioned, seconded by Janda to approve the bills.   All in favor, motion passed.

NEXT MEETING DATE:   Due to the Labor Day holiday, the next meeting date will be September 13, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Marinich motioned, seconded by Eliason to adjourn at 6:50 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Township Board Meeting Minutes July 2021

Picture of Flower

JULY 5, 2021 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER:   Supervisor Jay Fish called the Regular Board meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. at the Arvon Township fire hall on July 5, 2021.

ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS PRESENT: Jay Fish-Supervisor, Krystal Larson-Treasurer, Lisa Marinich-Clerk, Robert Janda-Trustee , Chris Walmhoff-Trustee.

MINUTES APPROVAL: Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the June 7, 2021 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL: Fish requests “Point Abbaye” and “Dust Control” under “Old Business”, Marinich requests “UPSET” under “Old Business”.   With the additions to the agenda, Larson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve the agenda.   All in favor, motion passed.

PUBLIC COMMENT:  Linnea Barron let the Board know that the Planning Commission will be holding a special meeting July 15, 2021 from 7:00 p.m. To 8:30 p.m.  Land Use Plan -vision for Arvon Township.  Jason McCarthy will be attending the meeting.  Barron also let the board know that they will be holding their annual meeting on July 14, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. 

-Marinich Sworn in Nancy Strohschein as a member of the Planning Commission on July 15, 2021.

-The land on the end of Sawmill Road has been notified to Ken Anderson.  Complaints have been made about.

OLD BUSINESS:  The cemetery will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-A special meeting was held on June 30th about the ORV trailing in Arvon Township.  Not many showed for the meeting so the Board asked the Planning Commission board if they would bring this issue up at their special meeting thinking there would be more attending.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting. 

-Fish has been getting complaints about people driving their vehicles out to the end of the Point Abbaye.  They are wondering why the large rocks were pushed aside allowing this to happen.  Fish will contact the Baraga Co. Road Commission and Wendy Goodreau about this issue.  Table until next month’s meeting.

-A few residents attended the meeting concerned if the township is going to do anything about the dust control.   Fish will contact the Baraga Co. Road Commission to see what can be done.  Table until next month’s meeting.

-UPSET is seeking funding to assist with operating expenses which greatly enhance investigative efforts in our community.  The township contributed $1,000.00 in the past.  Larson Motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve a $1,000.00 contribution to UPSET.  All in favor, motion passed.

NEW BUSINESS:  Bay Ambulance is requesting additional funding.   They are desperately in need of replacing ambulances.  Marinich let the board know that there would be $15,000.00 available to contribute.  There would be enough in the Amb/EMT fund to pay all the monthly bills for the fiscal year after contributing the $15,000.00 to Bay Ambulance.  Larson motioned, seconded by Janda to approve the $15,000.00 to Bay Ambulance to put towards a new ambulance.  All in favor, motion passed. 

-MTA strongly suggests the township should approve a Principles of Governance. This is to maintain the highest standard and traditions of Michigan townships.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve a Principles of Governance.  All in favor, motion passed.  

JAMES FEDIE:  Fedie let the board know that the Board of Review will be meeting on July 21, 2021.

MAIL CALL:   

TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$321,138.77 Ambulance/EMT Fund-$38,624.95 Fire Fund-$224,733.45 Liquor Fund-$524.82, Road Fund-$70,385.21. Marinich motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.      

BILL APPROVAL:  Larson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the bills.   All in favor, motion passed.

NEXT MEETING DATE:   The next meeting date will be August 2, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to adjourn at 6:50 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Township Board Meeting Minutes June 2021

JUNE 7, 2021 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER:   Supervisor Jay Fish called the Regular Board meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. at the Arvon Township fire hall on June 7, 2021.

ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS PRESENT: Jay Fish-Supervisor, Krystal Larson-Treasurer, Lisa Marinich-Clerk, Robert Janda-Trustee , Chris Walmhoff-Trustee.

MINUTES APPROVAL: Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Janda to approve the May 3, 2021 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL: Larson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the agenda.   All in favor, motion passed.

PUBLIC COMMENT:  Dean Witz quoted a rough estimate of $2,500.00 to put top soil over the new septic.  Larson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve the top soil.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Kay Erickson let the board know that she made all the corrections to the township website.

-Linnea Barron let the board know that Jason McCarthy wants to get started on the township’s Master Plan.   The Planning Commission will schedule a public meeting for July.

OLD BUSINESS:

NEW BUSINESS:  The cemetery will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Fish attended the Baraga Co. Trail Authority meeting.  In his opinion the trail through Arvon township would help find ORV’s that are stranded, but yet the cons in his mind is that if the ORV’s will respect our land in Arvon Township.  He said that the DNR wants to work with the communities.

There would also be an extra tag to be purchased if you use these trails.  The Baraga Co. Trail Authority is asking Arvon Township for $3,000.00 for this ORV program.  Marinich and Larson would like to have a special meeting on this matter before making any motions.  The special meeting will be June 30, 2021 at 6:30 pm at the Skanee Township hall.                         

JAMES FEDIE:  Fedie let the board know that he is doing field work now.  He’ll be helping Larson with sending out the 2021 summer taxes and that he will help Fish with the L4029 Form.

MAIL CALL:   

TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$324,422.43 Ambulance/EMT Fund-$38,624.95 Fire Fund-$226,133.27 Liquor Fund-$569.48, Road Fund-$66,746.22. Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Janda to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.      

BILL APPROVAL:  Larson motioned, seconded by Janda to approve the bills.   All in favor, motion passed. 

NEXT MEETING DATE:   The next meeting date will be July 5, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Marinich to adjourn at 6:50 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Township Board Meeting Minutes May 2021

Skanee Townhall

MAY 3, 2021 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER:   Supervisor Jay Fish called the Regular Board meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. at the Arvon Township fire hall on May 3, 2021.

ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS PRESENT: Jay Fish-Supervisor, Krystal Larson-Treasurer, Lisa Marinich-Clerk, Robert Janda-Trustee , Chris Walmhoff-Trustee.

MINUTES APPROVAL: Marinich will correct the Minutes header from May 3, 2021 to April 5, 2021.  With the April 5, 2021 minutes correction, Larson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the April 5, 2021 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL:  Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the agenda.   All in favor, motion passed.

PUBLIC COMMENT:  Lyle Olsen presented himself as the new Commissioner of District 4.  He let the board know if there are ever any concerns, he would be there to try and find the answer. 

-A meeting will be held on May 6, 2021 at the L’Anse Tourist Center at 6:00 p.m. for public comments on ORV trails.  Wahmhoff is working with the GPS and drones.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Public wanted to know about the branding funds we donated to L’Anse.

-Linnea Barron let the board know that the Planning Commission is in need of members.  She would like to see a 7 member board.  Loman has been absent for a few meetings, but would still like to stay on the board.  Marinich will put an ad in the paper for 2 members vacancy.   

-Gabe asked who was on the Board of Appeals.  Pam Nankervis, Kay Erickson, Jerry Hollon, Jay Fish and Jay Loman.

-Joanne Erickson asked if it was fine to start the new fire hall project.  The board said it was already approved, so Whitman Construction can start the bathrooms and stairs.

-Ken Anderson let the board know that the Board of Appeals will have to hold a public meeting the later part of June.  The Elmblad Brothers will site prep this year and they will build next year a RV and boat storage unit 40 X 60 and a 40 X 80 storage units building.  They will need to get a special use permit, advertise and letters sent out the adjoining land owners.  

OLD BUSINESS:  Royal Lawn Care’s bid of $3,000.00 was the only bid for the Skanee Cemetery clean up.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve Royal Lawn care.  All in favor, motion passed.

-ORV program will be tabled until Wahmhoff and Fish attend the ORV meeting in L’Anse.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              NEW BUSINESS: Larson motioned, second by Wahmhoff to approve the Township insurance renewal.  All in favor, motion passed. 

JAMES FEDIE:  Fedie let the board know that the Keweenaw Land Trust attended the Board of Review in March.   There were 13 Veterans exemptions in Arvon Township.

MAIL CALL:   

TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$301,823.03 Ambulance/EMT Fund-$38,208.32 Fire Fund-$232,139.02 Liquor Fund-$614.14, Road Fund-$63,995.75. Marinich motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.      

BILL APPROVAL:  Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the bills.   All in favor, motion passed.                                                                                                                                                                        

NEXT MEETING DATE:   The next meeting date will be June 7, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Larson to adjourn at 6:45 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Township Board Meeting Minutes April 2021

APRIL 5, 2021 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER:  Supervisor Fish called the Regular Board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. at the Arvon Township Fire Hall on April 5, 2021.

ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS PRESENT:  Jay Fish-Supervisor, Lisa Marinich-Clerk, Krystal Larson-Treasurer, Chris Wahmhoff-Trustee, Robert Janda-Trustee/absent.

MINUTES APPROVAL:  Larson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve the November 2, 2020 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL:  Fish requests “New Cemetery” under “New Business”.  With the addition, Larson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the agenda.  All in favor, motion passed.

PUBLIC COMMENT:   Mary DeLine called Marinich to let the board know that she is resigning from the Planning Commission position as of April 5, 2021.  Marinich said that nobody has applied for the Planning Commission position.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to keep the Commission as 5 members for now.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Jason McCarthy would like to move forward with the Master Plan in May, with public meetings and comments. 

-Bette Gabe asked if the Township paid any money towards the ORV trail program.  We have not.  Wahmhoff will have more information on this issue at next month’s meeting.  Gabe would like more discussion on this issue also.

-Joe Brogan presented himself at the meeting as the newly elected Sheriff.  He would like to maintain a working relationship the all the small townships and to come out to meetings at random.  The board welcomed it.

OLD BUSINESS: 

NEW BUSINESS:  Fish met with Mike Bianco to discuss measurements that the L’Anse Evergreen Cemetery has for plots.  A full lot 10X16 (4 graves) $300.00.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting when Fish gets more information on it. 

JAMES FEDIE:

MAIL CALL:

TREASURER’S REPORT:  Larson gave the Treasurer’s report.  General Fund-$303,860.42, Ambulance/EMT Fund-$38,208.32, Fire Fund-$232,276.03, Liquor Fund-$614.14, Road Fund-$60,995.75.  Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve the Treasurer’s report.  All in favor, motion passed. 

BILL APPROVAL:  With the addition to the APEX $235.00 bill, Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the bills.  All in favor, motion passed. 

NEXT MEETING DATE:  The next meeting date will be May 3, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at the Fire Hall.

ADJOURN:  Larson motioned, seconded by Marinich to adjourn at 6:30 p.m.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Planning & Zoning Qtrly Meeting July 2020

CALL TO ORDER:  6:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL AND RECOGNITION OF VISITORS:  Bette Gabe, Chairperson; Dorothy Nankervis, Trustee; Mary Deline, Trustee; Joe Bollech, Trustee; Keith Erickson, Township Board Representative; Kenny Anderson, Zoning Administrator; Linnea Barron, Secretary.  Absent:  Jay Loman, unknown reason.  Visitors:  Irene Fisher.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:  We started our meeting with the pledge of allegiance.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA:  Dorothy made a motion to accept the agenda, Mary seconded, all in favor, motion carried.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Mary made a motion to accept the minutes for the quarterly January 8, 2020 meeting, seconded by Keith, all in favor, motion carried.  Dorothy made a motion to accept the minutes for the Feb. 25, 2020 work session, seconded by Mary, all in favor, motion carried.

SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARINGS:  Public Hearing on the proposed amendments to our wind turbine section in the Ordinance is on August 10, 2020, at 6 p.m. at the Arvon Township Town Hall.  Bette discussed the process for the meeting.

PUBLIC COMMENT:  Irene reserved her comment to our second public comment.

OTHER MATTERS TO BE REVIEWED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION:  None.

OLD BUSINESS

a. Proposed zoning amendments in regard to utility wind turbines; overview and suggested changes by Attorney Joshua Nolan.  There were just a few suggestions by the attorney to our amendments and are as follows: 

1.  Section 1502 (D) – change “Allow use of wind turbine…”  to “Allow operation of wind turbine…”’ 

2.  Section 1502 – Onsite – (D) Remove from D. Sound Pressure Level…”This sound pressure level may be exceeded during short-term events such as utility outages and/or severe wind storms.”  It is not mentioned in the utility grid section and the on-site regulations should mirror the utility grid to avoid any “equal protection” claims. 

3.  Section 901 (A)(2)(c) and (d):  The 1.5 times height seems inconsistent with the 2,500’ setback due to the height of 330’ height limit.  Suggested we either increase the multiplier 5 times the height or eliminate it altogether.  We chose to eliminate the 1.5 times the height and used the distance of 2,500 feet from the property line….. 

4.  Section 901 (B):  The following was added for clarification:  “Noise measurements shall be conducted consistent with ANSI S12.18 Procedures for Outdoor Measurement of Sound Pressure Level and ANSI S12.9 Part 3 (Quantities and Procedures for Description and Measurement of Environmental Sound — Part 3:  Short-term Measurements with an Observer Present), using Type 1 meter, A-weighting, Fast Response.”

5.  Section 901 (C):  Suggestion to remove the phrase “industry standards” as it can mean something different depending on the wind industry representative.  We changed it to read, “All solid waste whether generated from supplies, equipment, parts, packaging or operation or maintenance of the facility, including old parts and equipment, shall be removed from the site within thirty (30) days of the date such solid waste was generated.”

6.  Section 901 (H)(2):  Change the language of “maximum and most up to date technology”.   A letter A was added to include the following:  Turbines must include technology acceptable to the Township that minimizes the risk of harm….”   Also a letter B was added to read:  “The applicant must comply with US Fish & Wildlife Guidelines concerning the siting and operation of industrial wind turbines.”

7.  Section 901(H)(4):  change to “A decommissioning plan acceptable to the Township shall be provided….. (This wording was added).

8.  Site Plan Review, Section K:  Type corrected from ANSI 512.9 to read ANSI S12.9.

After discussion, a motion was made by Mary to accept the changes to our amendments, seconded by Dorothy, all agreed and motion carried.

b. Master Plan updates and timeline:   Jason McCarthy has been working on our Master Plan and submitted an extended timeline due to the COVID-19 virus.  We need a public open house before the snowbirds leave to be able to continue to work on this.  He has been working on the history of the area, some demographics and will be applying census data when available. 

OPEN DISCUSSION FOR ISSUES NOT ON THE AGENDA:  

  1. Correspondence received:  None except the update from Jason McCarthy.
  2. Planning Commission members concerns:  Get this done.
  3. Members of the audience concerns:  Think we are doing an awesome job.

REPORT OF TOWNSHIP BOARD REPRESENTATIVE, Keith Erickson:  None.

REPORT OF ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS REPRESENTATIVE:  Jay Loman:  Absent

REPORT OF PLANNING CONSULTANT:  No consultant

NEW BUSINESS:

  1. Any new business:  None.
  2. Setting public hearing dates or work sessions, if needed:  Already covered above.

DISCRETIONARY PUBLIC COMMENT:  Irene presented an idea for our township due to her interest in a TV show “Flea Market Flip” that is popular.  She suggested having a designated flea market in Arvon Township on a regular basis (seasonal ?).  This will fall under our Master Plan when we have an open house for these kinds of suggestions. 

Keith brought up about the Potter’s Field at the cemetery having gravel leveled and putting a plaque with the names of those buried there. 

Kenny brought up needing a definition for junk yard.  A definition for blight already exists in the Ordinance.  Discussion followed if there is a difference between the two, as there can be various opinions on this.

NEXT QUARTERLY MEETING DATE:  October 14, 2020, 6 p.m. at Skanee Town Hall. ADJOURNMENT:  Mary made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Joe, all agreed, motion carried.  Adjournment at 7:10 p.m.

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ARVON TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING

Skanee Townhall

ARVON TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARING
AUGUST 10, 2020
CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL AND RECOGNITION OF VISITORS: Bette Gabe, Chairperson; Dorothy Nankervis, Trustee; Joe Bollech, Trustee; Mary Deline, Trustee; Keith Erickson, Township Board Representative; Linnea Barron, Secretary. Absent: Jay Loman, Trustee, unknown reason.
Visitors included: Sue Bollech, Irene Fisher, Jeanette Baker, Nancy Strohschein, Wayne Abba, Marie Stiebe, Catherine Andrews, Jay Fish, Ken Andersen.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The pledge of allegiance was recited.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: A motion to accept the minutes from the July quarterly meeting made by Keith, seconded by Dorothy, all agreed, motion carried.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Mary made a motion to accept the agenda, seconded by Dorothy, all agreed, motion carried.
PRESENTATION OF ZONING TEXT AMENDMENTS AND NEW DEFINITIONS:
Available to all present were copies of the new definitions and changes made to the amendments on the wind energy portion of our ordinance.
Bette started the presentation by presenting the new definitions. It was clarified that these definitions were added as they appear in the amendments. Next Bette presented the amendments page by page bringing attention to anything in bold print indicating a change. These changes include a height limitation of 330 feet per turbine; distance from Lake Superior be 5 miles landward in the forest resource district; guidelines for siting and use of wind turbine structures and testing towers; sound pressure level; shadow flicker; property setbacks; distance between turbines; safety; avian and wildlife impact; decommissioning; complaint resolution; change in ownership; liability insurance.

OPENING OF PUBLIC COMMENTS: Jay Fish thanked us for a great job on these amendments. He expressed concern about the roads and the addition of transmission lines to utilize the electricity generated. We do not address this in our amendments as there is no way to measure this until the turbine location is known. Katherine Andrews interjected that the proposed transmission lines of the wind energy system for L’Anse Township would have been 28 miles, and Arvon Township is farther away. Jay stated he is an active outdoor enthusiast who likes to see the area stay the same with all the wonderful outdoor activities available to us. Wayne Abba also was in favor of the amendments and thanked the planning commission for their hard work. He was glad to see the addition of a decommissioning plan and security guarantee. Jeanette Baker was in favor of the amendments and thanked us. In explaining the distance from the shores of Lake Superior for any proposed wind turbines, Bette stated that we were advised to change from 7 miles to 5 miles by attorney, Josh Nolan. The US Fish and Wildlife Service guidelines are now 3 miles but they and other avian and conservation groups are looking to recommend 5 miles, with some suggesting 10 miles. Jeanette suggested that we include in our amendments that the distance be 5 miles or as recommended by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, whichever is greater. Jeanette questioned why we had reference to shadow flicker on page 3 and on page 11. Keith stated that on page 3 shadow flicker is pertaining to on-site wind turbines, not the utility grid turbines. She then felt on page 11 that the non-participating property lines with direct line-of-sight to a wind turbine was confusing. She stated that even though she cannot see the wind turbine there could be shadow flicker. She felt that the sentence should read non-participating properties, and omit the rest of the sentence. Jeanette also suggested on page 5 that we add to the sentence on fire detection systems and fire suppression systems the words “acceptable to the Township”. Nancy Strohschein is also in favor of the amendments. On page 9 of our amendments, she questioned on letter H. (water bodies, waterways, etc) the sentence on newly constructed WECS access roads may not impede the flow of water. A discussion on what a flow of water was addressed, is it a trickle or a torrent. Also there may be flow of water in the spring and not anymore in the summer. The definition of a river bed/bank was discussed and Jay stated that an area that shows a definite river bed and banks would be where a flow of water was present even if dry. Irene Fisher also added how the access roads could deteriorate just getting the turbines in place. She stated that at the Pine Ridge wind farm one turbine took 52 semi-loads of cement or concrete for one turbine. She felt this would impact the roads, water bodies, creeks, etc., in a negative way, especially in our area. Keith referred to the pre-application permit section in our amendments that covers this on #3, environment, a and b. These are the studies necessary before the application will be accepted. This would be in the Environmental Impact Statement. It was suggested that we add a sentence referring to this information on page 5, letter H. Nancy also wondered about the last item about liability insurance if the amount of $5,000,000 was sufficient and was it for the whole turbine system or per turbine. We discussed this and feel this needs to be clarified. Sue Bollech favored the amendments and agreed with the comments made. Irene Fisher favored the amendments and the good discussions. She felt that our wind turbine ordinance could be a model for other townships. Marie Stiebe favored the amendments and thanked us. Ken Anderson, our Zoning Administrator, had no comments.

ACKNOWLEDGE CORRESPONDENCE AND PHONE CALLS, IF ANY: Burt Mason voiced his support for our amendments and stated he would be unable to attend our hearing due to having to attend another meeting. No other calls or correspondence were received.

RECOGNIZE AND NOT SUPPORT AND/OR OPPOSITION TO ABOVE PROPOSALS: The proposed amendments were supported by those in attendance.

PUBLIC HEARING IS CLOSED AND REGULAR MEETING AGENDA CONTINUES: Bette at this time closed the public hearing portion at 7:10 p.m. and regular meeting commenced.

COMMISSION MEMBERS DISCUSS AND DELIBERATE ON PROPOSED UPDATED ZONING TEXT AMENDMENTS AND DEFINITIONS TO BE ADDED AND ANY MODIFICATIONS, IF ANY: The Planning Commission felt that the suggestions from the public were valid and we made the following modifications to our amendments”

  1. On page 4, #4, shall read: Utility grid wind energy tower shall meet a minimum setback of five (5) miles or the recommended setback of the US Fish & Wildlife Service, whichever is greater landward from the shorelines of Lake Superior and Huron Bay.
  2. On page 5, under Safety, last sentence, shall read: Utility grid wind energy towers shall have built-in fire detection systems and fire suppression systems acceptable to the Township.
  3. On page 9, letter H., add the following sentence: Refer to the Pre-application Permit on page 5, #3, Environment, letters a and b, for reference.
  4. Page 10, #4, change Environment Analysis to Environmental Impact Statement.
  5. Page 11, #6, Shadow Flicker, change second sentence to read: The analysis shall include potential shadow flicker created by each proposed wind turbine in any non-participating properties.
  6. Page 12, Liability Insurance: We discussed whether to have the amount pertain to per turbine or the whole system. Many felt that if for a whole system it was not enough. Bette will contact attorney, Josh Nolan, on this.
    A MOTION IS CALLED FOR; A VOTE IS CALLED FOR, AND RESULTS RECORDED: A motion was made by Keith and seconded by Mary to approve the modifications to our proposed amendments that resulted from our discussions with the public. Joe Bollech, yea; Dorothy
    Nankervis, yea; Mary Deline, yea; Keith Erickson, yea; Linnea Barron, yea; Bette Gabe, yea. Motion carried. A final draft of this will be sent to our Township Board for their consideration.
    ADJOURNMENT: Joe made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Dorothy. All agreed, motion carried. Adjourned at 7:35 p.m.
    Submitted by Linnea Barron, Secretary
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Township Board Meeting Minutes August 2020

Skanee Townhall

AUGUST 3, 2020 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER:   Supervisor James Soli called the Regular Board meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. at the Arvon Township fire hall on August 3, 2020.

ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS PRESENT: James Soli-Supervisor, Krystal Larson-Treasurer, Lisa Marinich-Clerk, Keith Erickson-Trustee, Chris Walmhoff-Trustee.

MINUTES APPROVAL: Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the July 6, 2020 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL:  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the agenda.   All in favor, motion passed.

PUBLIC COMMENT:   Gabe let the board know that the Planning Commission will be holding a public meeting August 10, 2020 at 6:00 p.m.  McCarthy won’t be able to finish the Master Plan until their in public input from the community.  Due to the Covid 19, the Master Plan may not be complete until 2021. 

OLD BUSINESS:  Marinich wanted to let the board know that she will be sending out the UPSET contribution of $1,000.00.

-After discussion, since Penokie started with the electrical in the new fire hall, Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve Penokie to install an on demand generator at the new fire hall.  All in favor, motion was passed.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      NEW BUSINESS: Wahmhoff approved, seconded by Erickson to approve Joanne Erickson, Shirley Soli, Sharon Ollila for election inspector’s and Jenny Janda as the Chairperson for the August 4, 2020 election.  All in favor, motion passed.

JAMES FEDIE:  

MAIL CALL:   

TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$255,836.88 Ambulance/EMT Fund-$32,669.59 Fire Fund-$183,678.18 Liquor Fund-$490.28, Road Fund-$16,777.43. Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.      

BILL APPROVAL:  Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the bills.   All in favor, motion passed.                                                                                                                           

NEXT MEETING DATE:   Due to the Labor Day Holiday, the board will hold their meeting on September 1, 2020 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Erickson to adjourn at 6:15 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Township Board Meeting Minutes July 2020

Skanee Townhall

JULY 6, 2020 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER:   Supervisor James Soli called the Regular Board meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. at the Arvon Township fire hall on July 6, 2020.          

ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS PRESENT: James Soli-Supervisor, Krystal Larson-Treasurer, Lisa Marinich-Clerk, Keith Erickson-Trustee, Chris Wahmhoff-Trustee.

MINUTES APPROVAL: Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the June 1, 2020 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL:  Soli let the board know that Brogan will not be attending the meeting.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the agenda without Brogan.  All in favor, motion passed.   

PUBLIC COMMENT:   Jay Fish attended the meeting to let the board know that he will be running for the Supervisor position in Arvon Township as a write-in. 

OLD BUSINESS:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               NNEW BUSINESS:  Keith Erickson let the board know that the Skanee Ball field is having tournaments this summer and that the township should rent a porta potty for the summer.  Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve a toilet.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Marinich is in need of a laptop to run the elections.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve a laptop for the clerk.  All in favor, motion passed.

JAMES FEDIE:  The Board of Review will be meeting July 21st at 11:00 A.M.  AMAR conducted an audit on Arvon Township and we passed with flying colors.  We are good for another 5 years Fedie said.

MAIL CALL:  

TREASURER’S REPORT: The Treasurer’s Report was the same as last month,  General Fund-$269,442.55 Ambulance/EMT Fund-$35,436.69 Fire Fund-$186,737.37 Liquor Fund-$534.94, Road Fund-$16,777.43.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.      

BILL APPROVAL: Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the bills.   All in favor, motion passed.                                                                                                                                             NEXT MEETING DATE:   The next meeting date will be August 3, 2020 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN:  Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Erickson to adjourn at 6:05 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Township Board Meeting Minutes June 2020

Skanee Townhall

JUNE 1, 2020 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

CALL TO ORDER:   Supervisor James Soli called the Regular Board meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. at the Arvon Township fire hall on June 1, 2020.

ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS PRESENT: James Soli-Supervisor, Krystal Larson-Treasurer, Lisa Marinich-Clerk, Keith Erickson-Trustee, Chris Walmhoff-Trustee.

MINUTES APPROVAL: Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the May 4, 2020 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL:  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the agenda.   All in favor, motion passed.

PUBLIC COMMENT:   Gabe let the board know that the Planning Commission will be holding a meeting the 2nd  Wednesday of July.   They may even have it outside.  Gabe and Barron are having issues with their computers. 

OLD BUSINESS:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   NEW BUSINESS:

JAMES FEDIE:  Fedie let the board know that he is getting audited by AMAR this year.

MAIL CALL:   

TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$209,750.58 Ambulance/EMT Fund-$34,873.79 Fire Fund-$181,229.94 Liquor Fund-$579.60, Road Fund-$16,777.43.  Wahmhoff motioned, seconded by Erickson to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.      

BILL APPROVAL:  Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the bills.   All in favor, motion passed.                                                                                                                                                            NEXT MEETING DATE:   The next meeting date will be July 6, 2020 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to adjourn at 6:15 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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