Author: ArvonJewel

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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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Township Board Meeting Minutes December 2019

Skanee Townhall

DECEMBER 5, 2019 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 December 5, 2019.          

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

MINUTES APPROVAL: Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the November 4, 2019 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

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

PUBLIC COMMENT:    Bette Gabe let the board know that the Planning Commission had a work session in Baraga.  They will be holding another meeting in January.

OLD BUSINESS:    The Planning Commission requested a moratorium on the wind turbine issue for the winter.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve a 3 month moratorium.  All in favor, motion passed.

-With the November power outage, the township should have an on demand generator the fire halls.  The cost would roughly be $15,000 to $18,000 for a 20,000 watt generator.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to put out bids.  All in favor, motion passed.

-After discussion, it would be best to put the road millage proposal on the August 4, 2020 election because the snow birds will be home.   Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the reading of the Road millage proposal and the date of August 4, 2020.  All in favor, motion passed.

Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to also have the AMB/EMT millage renewal proposal on the August 4, 2020 election and approve the reading of the millage.  All in favor, motion passed.                              

NEW BUSINESS:

JAMES FEDIE:  Fedie let the board know that the Board of Review will be meeting on December 10th.

MAIL CALL:   Marci Cella sent a packet to the board to read on property values decreasing in the L’Anse area due to turbine controversy.

-Soli questioned paying the Planning Commission board for the meeting held out of Arvon Township.  After discussion, Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve their pay.  All in favor, motion passed.

 TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$224,200.31 Ambulance/EMT Fund-$25,457.40 Fire Fund-$133,108.76 Liquor Fund-$802.90, Road Fund-$18,340.83.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Marinich 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 January 6, 2020 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to adjourn at 6:40 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Township Board Meeting Minutes November 2019

Skanee Townhall

NOVEMBER 4, 2019 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 November 4, 2019.          

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 October 7, 2019 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

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

PUBLIC COMMENT:    Bette Gabe requests a moratorium on wind turbines.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

OLD BUSINESS:  Jason McCarthy submitted a Project Contract & Services Scope to the township board.  He meet with the Planning Commission to review goals and objectives for the townships Mater Plan update.  It will take between 8-10 months to complete.  He will complete the referenced tasks in an efficient and professional manner for a flat fee of $10,000.00, which will include his travel.  A deposit of 50% made at the time of the project agreement signing and balance paid within 30 days of completion of the Master Plan.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve Jason McCarthy’s contract.   All in favor, motion passed.

-For years the township only had one “Public Comment on the agenda.  After discussion, the board feels that one is adequate.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to change it back to one “Public Comment” on the agenda.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Soli requests putting 1 millage up for vote for Arvon Township road improvement/maintenance.  There will be 3 elections in 2020, this proposal could be put on the ballot.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to put the proposal on the ballot in 2020.  All in favor, motion passed.   Marinich will have the wording to approve for next month’s meeting.

-The Ambulance/EMT millage is also expiring in 2020.  Marinich will have the wording to approve at next month’s meeting.

-The Township has to participate in the FEMA Flood Plain program in order for the township taxpayers to get flood insurance.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to participate in the program.  All in favor, motion passed. 

-The cemetery is surveyed and ready to put top soil down.  With winter fast approaching this will be tabled until spring.

-Baraga Telephone Company will be laying down cable and video line in the township.  The township can charge them 5% annually.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve charging them annually 5%.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to reappoint Linnea Barron for a 3 year term on the Planning Commission board.  All in favor, motion passed.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     NEW BUSINESS: Larson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve $500.00 to join the Baraga County Chamber of Commerce.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve Curt Royal for the 2019-2020 winter plowing for the Skanee Park and the Access Site.  All in favor, motion passed.

-The Arvon School Christmas program is December 20th.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Marinich to close the  Township hall after that for the winter.  All in favor, motion passed.

JAMES FEDIE:  Fedie let the board know that the winter tax bills will be out by December 3rd.

MAIL CALL:   

 TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$231,318.93 Ambulance/EMT Fund-$28,044.90 Fire Fund-$133,321.29 Liquor Fund-$847.56, Road Fund-$18,340.83.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.      

BILL APPROVAL:   Jason McCarthy wants to be paid $5,000.00 down before the next month’s meeting, Marinich will also pay Curt Royals bill of $1,450.00.   Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the bills with the two additions.   All in favor, motion passed.                                                                                                                                                                        NEXT MEETING DATE:   The next meeting date will be December 2, 2019 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to adjourn at 7:10 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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2019 Annual Meeting Minutes

Huron

ARVON TOWNSHIP ANNUAL/BUDGET MEETING MINUTES

MARCH 26, 2019

CALL TO ORDER: Supervisor James Soli called the March 26, 2019 Annual/Budget meeting to order that was held at the Skanee Fire Hall at 5:00 P.M. 

BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: James Soli-Supervisor, Krystal Larson-Treasurer, Lisa Marinich-Clerk, Keith Erickson-Trustee, Karl Gipp-Trustee-absent.

ROLL CALL: Taken at 5:00 p.m.

MARCH 29, 2018 MINUTES APPROVAL: Joanne Erickson motioned, seconded by Linnea Barron to approve the minutes of the March 29, 2018 meeting.  All in favor, motion passed.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Krystal Larson motioned, seconded by Joanne Erickson, to approve the Agenda.  All in favor, motion passed.

SUPERVISOR’S TOWNSHIP UPDATE:   Supervisor Soli presented the Township updates.

-Steven Tinti is the township’s new attorney.

-The new part of the Skanee Cemetery is now surveyed.

-Hired Jason McCarthy to update the townships Master Plan.  $5,000 down and $5,000 at completion.

-The township website has been updated.

TOWNSHIP HALL MAINTENANCE:  No hall maintenance was done this fiscal year.         

DEPOSITORY:  Joanne Erickson motioned, seconded by Nancy Soli to stay with Superior National Bank and Baraga Co. Credit Union as the Township depositories.  All in favor, motion passed. 

SALARY APPROVAL: The Supervisor and Clerk salary is $6,500.00 per year, the Treasurer’s salary is $8,000.00 a year and the Trustees are $55.00 per meeting.  Nancy Soli motioned, seconded by Linnea Barron approving the salaries remain the same.  All in favor, motion passed.

DATES, TIMES, LOCATION OF REGULAR BOARD MEETINGS: The Regular monthly meetings are at 6:00 P.M. At the Skanee Fire Hall. Keith Erickson motioned, seconded by Joanne Erickson to leave it the same.  All in favor, motion passed.

MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT RATES: Joanne Erickson motioned, seconded by Linnea Barron to approve the Federal Government rate per mile for reimbursement.  All in favor, motion passed.

TOWN HALL/FIRE HALL RENTAL FEES AND AGREEMENTS: Kelly Erickson motioned, seconded by Kay Erickson to keep the rental fee for the downstairs and upstairs of the Town Hall at $75.00 each and leave the deposit fee for alcohol at $100.00.  Rental of the Fire Hall is $50.00 and a $100.00 deposit for alcohol.  The Fire hall rental will be free to all Fire Dept. members.  All in favor, motion passed.

CEMETERY LOT FEES: The cemetery lot fees are $200.00 for a full lot and a half lot $100.00. Joanne Erickson motioned, seconded by Kay Erickson stay with the same fees for the taxpayers of Arvon Township.  All in favor, motion passed. 

CEMETERY CLEAN UP: Dorothy Nankervis motioned, seconded by Linnea Barron to bid out the Skanee cemetery clean up again this year.  All in favor, motion passed.  Marinich will put an ad in paper for bids in the next week’s paper.

BOARD OF REVIEW/ZONING BOARD/ELECTION BOARD SALARIES:  Board of Review wage is $12.00/hr with paid lunch. The Election Chairperson wage is $12.50/hr. and the election workers wage is $12.00/hr., their paid lunches are $10.00. The Zoning Board/Zoning Board of Appeals chairperson is $35.00, secretary $30.00, Zoning Board members $25.00 per meeting. Any training for the Board of Review, Zoning Boards or the Election Board will be paid  $25.00 for a half day (up to 4 hours) and $50.00 for a full day (over 4 hours) plus mileage.  Marinich asked for a raise for the two Zoning Boards, $50.00 for the chairperson and secretary, $35.00 for the members per meeting.  Joanne Erickson motioned, second by Kay Erickson to approve the increase for the two Zoning board wages and to keep the Board of Review and training as is.   All in favor, motion passed.        

ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:   Marinich asked that the Township Janitor receive a raise.  From $6,500 a year to $7,200 a year.  Keith Erickson motioned, seconded by Nancy Soli to approve the raise.  All in favor, motion passed.

ANNUAL MEETING ADJOURNMENT: Keith Erickson motioned, seconded by Linnea Barron to adjourn the Annual meeting at 5:30 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

BUDGET MEETING: Supervisor James Soli called the 2018-2019/2019-2020 Budget meeting to order at 5:30 P.M. at the Township Fire Hall.  After the board read through the revised budget, Keith Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the revised budget of 2018-2019.  All in favor, motion passed.

– After the board read through the Budget of 2019-2020, Krystal Larson motioned, seconded by Keith Erickson to approve the 2019-2020 Budget.  All in favor, motion passed. 

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

ADJOURNMENT:  Keith Erickson motioned, seconded by Krystal Larson to adjourn the Budget meeting at 5:45 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich

Arvon Township Clerk

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