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Township Board Mtg Minutes August 2019

Skanee Townhall

AUGUST 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 August 5, 2019.

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

MINUTES APPROVAL:  Larson motioned, seconded by Erickson to approve the July 1, 2019 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

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

PUBLIC COMMENT:  The Planning Commission presented the new zoning map that Homestead Graphics completed.  Bette received a Master Plan quote of $16,600.00 from a Jerald Wuoremmaa.  This will be put on next month’s meeting.

-Bert Mason asked the board if they received the paper’s he gave at last month’s meeting to read over. It pertained to wind turbine information.  None of the members received anything.  He said he left an envelope on the township boards table. 

OLD BUSINESS: Bette is waiting on 2 gentlemen from Michigan Tech to let her know about working on the Land Use Plan.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Fire fighters will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to accept that the Zoning Administrator have the authority over small houses.  All in favor, motion passed.                                                                                   Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to approve that the Zoning Administrator is appointed by the township supervisor, not the Planning Commission.  All in favor, motion passed.

-MTA sent Marinich a sample ordinance to prohibit recreational marijuana establishments.  Marinich will type an Arvon Township ordinance to be motioned on at next month’s meeting.  This will be tabled until next month.

NEW BUSINESS: Before a person can apply for flood plain insurance the Township has to participate in the program.  The first 30 days insured you’re restricted for the coverage, after that up to $250,000.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to participate the flood plain insurance program. Soli will get the application sent to FEMA.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

FEDIE:  Jim is doing fieldwork right now.

MAIL CALL:

TREASURER’S REPORT:  Larson gave the Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$234,554.05, Ambulance/EMT Fund-$30,260.89, Fire Fund-$133,328.68, Liquor Fund-$459.04, Road Fund-$18,340.83.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.

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

NEXT MEETING DATE:  Due to the Labor Day holiday the next meeting date will be held on September 3, 2019 at the Arvon Township 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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Township Board Mtg Minutes July 2019

Skanee Townhall

JULY 1, 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 July 1, 2019.

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

MINUTES APPROVAL:  Erickson motioned, seconded by Wahmhoff to approve the June 3, 2019 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL:  Soli requests “Bid for cemetery” under “Old Business.”  Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the agenda with the one addition.  All in favor, motion passed.

PUBLIC COMMENT: 

OLD BUSINESS: Bette Gabe hasn’t received a response from either Brad Newman or Sarah from Mekena about updating the Township’s Master Plan.  She did hear from a Mary VanTilburg about possibly helping out with it.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-The provisions of the ordinance shall be administered by the Zoning Administer who shall be appointed by the township board not the Planning Commission.  Marinich approved it seconded by Erickson.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Soli found out that Covington, L’Anse and Baraga all pay their Firefighters a certain amount to attend a fire, but also have to take taxes out and send out W2’s at the end of the year.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting. 

-The Planning Commission has a revised zoning map update including better color clarity and road name corrections.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to approve the map revision as an adopted amendment to the Arvon zoning ordinance.  All in favor, motion passed.  The Planning Commission also has a zoning text correction in all districts and wherever else references are made in the zoning text regarding small non-inhabitable structures such as utility buildings, the zoning administrator has permitting and approval authority not the Planning Commission.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to approve the adoption of this amendment.  All in favor, motion passed.  Marinich will put the notice in the paper by the due date.

-Soli did not hear back from the township’s new attorney about the zoning additions and corrections.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

NEW BUSINESS:  The State is requiring township’s to either opt in or opt out of the Recreational Marijuana establishment. Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to Opt out of the Recreational Marijuana Establishment.  All in favor, motion passed.

Residents on Portice Road are concerned about all the dust from traffic.  Soli let them know that the township can’t afford putting chloride down on all the gravel roads in Arvon Township.  He let them know that years ago the township had a road maintenance millage and the dust control was an issue even then.

-The Kallio Fund donated $1,200.00 this year towards the Skanee Cemetery clean up. The board thanks them for such a big donation. 

-Scott Swanson bid $2,600.00 to provide surveying services for the Skanee cemetery expansion to the north of the existing cemetery plats.  Services would include working on design of new lot and block area.  Setting iron pins at block corners and a map will be provided in PDF form as well as hard copy.  Iron pins will be provided by the township.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve Swanson with the job.  All in favor, motion passed.

FEDIE:  He is working on the rest of the field work for the Township.

MAIL CALL: Received the invoice from the Portage Health Foundation.  The township approved $1,000.00 to donate to UPSET.  Marinich will make the check out for next month’s meeting.

TREASURER’S REPORT:  Larson gave the Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$239,160.03, Ambulance/EMT Fund-$30,260.89, Fire Fund-$133,669.94, Liquor Fund-$503.70, Road Fund-$18,340.83.  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:  The next meeting date will be held on August 5, 2019 at the Arvon Township Fire Hall.

ADJOURN:  Erickson 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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Planning & Zoning Quarterly Minutes July, 2019

Welcome

ARVON TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION QUARTERLY MEETING

JULY 10, 2019

CALL TO ORDER:  6:02 p.m.

ROLL CALL AND RECOGNITION OF VISITORS:  Bette Gabe, Chairperson; Jay Loman, Trustee; Dorothy Nankervis, Trustee; Keith Erickson, Township Board Representative; Joe Bollech, Trustee.  Absent:  Mary Deline, Trustee, out of town.

Visitors included:  Jeff Loman, Wayne Abba, Pat Stein, Linda Kinnunen, Katherine Andrews.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA:  Addition to agenda under Old Business add Township Website.  Keith made a motion, seconded by Dorothy.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Jay requested a correction in the Public Hearing minutes to indicate that he was in attendance and to correct the name to Bob Kissel in attendance.  Approval of minutes by Jay, seconded by Dorothy with the changes.

SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARINGS:  None.

PUBLIC COMMENT:  Katherine Andrews made comment on a comment during the public hearing about nature conservancy being unique.  She stated it is not unique.  There are several nature conservancies in the state.  We explained that statement was made by a public member and we recorded it as stated.

Jeff Loman stated how important it was that the wind energy systems be addressed by Arvon Township and changed in our ordinance.  On SAVE, the attorney Mr. Tinti said if zoning ordinance prevented wind turbines on forest resource land that township would get sued.  Not true, L’Anse didn’t get sued.  If attorney continues to advise that we would be sued, ask him to provide a case example.

Wayne Abba stated that restrictrictions are not exclusive and our attorney does not have an understanding of wind energy.  If a threat should arise, ask what is it based on.  The big push for wind energy is that tax credits for this will end in 2020.

Katherine commented that L’Anse’s attorney would get back to them right away with an answer.  Technology makes it possible to do business without having face to face contact.

Another topic that came up at a township board meeting was the issue of dust abatement on our unpaved roads.  Wayne stated that too often the first response is that it is too expensive and the county will not do anything.  Wayne stated when a problem arises to acknowledge the problem and try for a solution.  He suggested:  1.  There is a problem.  2.  Present solutions (all of them no matter how expensive).  3.  Find which solution may have possibilities, then look into the cost and find ways to resolve it.  Maybe cost share for residents who are directly affected.

OTHER MATTERS TO BE REVIEWED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION:  None

OLD BUSINESS: 

  1. New zoning map and 2 corrections adopted as amendments to zoning:  This was effective on July 17, 2019.
  2. Statue of remaining amendments:  Unknown.
  3. Updating Master Plan:   Bette has been having difficulty finding someone who wants to help us with our master plan.  She has made calls but without anyone returning her calls.  Jeff Loman suggested she try Michigan Tech MSU Extension.  Contact person Dr. Guy Meadows.  Bette will try to get in touch with him.

OPEN DISCUSSION FOR ISSUES NOT ON THE AGENDA

  1. Correspondence received:  None.
  2. Planning commission members concerns, if any:   None.
  3. Members of the audience concerns:  Wayne and Jeff both addressed how having blight addressed in our ordinance could make Arvon Township more attractive to visitors and perhaps future residents.  Wayne also asked if we have all the attractions in Arvon Township on the website including the marina, Silver River Falls, and the various falls in the area.
  4. Township Website:  Paul Warner will be meeting with Kay Erickson on updating or changing the software used for the site. 

REPORT OF TOWNSHIP BOARD REPRESENTATIVE, Keith Erickson:  None.

REPORT OF ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS REPRESENTATIVE, Jay Loman:  None.

REPORT OF PLANNING CONSULTANT:  None.

NEW BUSINESS:

  1. Damaged buildings, timeline for removal and clean-up:  Ken brought up that when buildings are damaged, like in a fire, we have no timeline for cleanup.  Eagle Harbor has a 12 month limit for cleanup.  Discussion included what responsibility is for insurance companies, etc.  We decided to check into other townships and what they have and resume this topic at our next meeting.
  2. Temporary buildings and travel trailers:  On page 73 of the Ordinance, a correction needs to be made. Section 1407, Other Uses of Mobile Homes and Trailers, H, #4.  It reads; other temporary uses of mobile homes, travel trailers, or motor homes for a period not to exceed 24 months upon review and approval by the Planning Commission provided it is determined that the use is consistent with the intent of the Zoning Ordinance and would not be detrimental to any surrounding uses or properties.  The correction would be the Zoning Administrator, not the Planning Commission would do this.  Dorothy made a motion to make this correction, Keith seconded it, all approved, motion carried.
  3. Ken also requested that the Principal Uses section of FR and FF concerning temporary mobile homes, #2 on page 50, be added to RR and SR.  This reads:  Temporary mobile home or travel trailer maintained in sound running condition with a current vehicle license, provided occupancy is limited to not more than thirty (30) days in any calendar year.  Discussion included the problem of enforcement and decision to not honor this request was made unless the enforcement issue is resolved.
  4. Any other new business:  None.
  5. Setting public hearing dates, if needed:  None.

DISCRETIONARY PUBLIC COMMENT:  None.

NEXT QUARTERLY MEETING DATE:  Oct 9, 2019, 6 p.m. at Town Hall.

ADJOURNMENT:  7:40 p.m.  Keith made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Dorothy.

Submitted by Linnea Barron, Secretary

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Township Board Mtg Minutes June, 2019

View of Beaver Pond

JUNE 3, 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 June 3, 2019.            

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

MINUTES APPROVAL: Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the May 6, 2019 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL:   Soli requests “Boats for park” and “Zoning laws” under “New Business”. Erickson motioned, seconded by Walmhoff to approve the agenda with the additions.   All in favor, motion passed. PUBLIC COMMENT:   Bette Gabe request to have Sarah Makena and Brad Newman come up with a quote for next month’s meeting to update the townships Master Plan.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting. -Keith Erickson let the board know that the Kallio fund will be donating $1,000.00 to pay for half of the cemetery clean up.   

-Kay Erickson requests hiring Paul Warner for the township website updating.  The cost is $2,000.00.  Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to approve the updating.  All in favor, motion passed.     

OLD BUSINESS:   Land Use will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Fire fighters will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Soli contacted two attorneys for the Township.  Michael Homier from Lower Michigan.  His quote was $225.00 an hr plus mileage and Steve Tinti from Crystal Falls, MI, his quote was $170.00 an hr. with no mileage charge.  Neither attorney charges a retainer fee.  After discussion Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to hire Tinti as the new Township attorney.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Joe Bollech was the only one that applied for the Planning Commission position.   Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve Bollech.  All in favor, motion passed.  Marinich will swear him in after the meeting.                                                                                                                                                                                                         

NEW BUSINESS: Jay Loman would like to donate two old boats to the township park for decoration. 

After discussion the board opted out of the offer.                                                                                               –

Soli is going to contact the township attorney about the zoning ordinance additions and corrections that the Planning Commission brought in front of the board for approval.  Soli feels the set-back for wind turbines could put the township at risk.  All the additions and corrections will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Erickson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve WUPPDR to do the zoning map updating. The cost will be $500.00.  All in favor, motion passed.

JAMES FEDIE:   

MAIL CALL:    

 TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$226,076.56

Ambulance/EMT Fund-$31,271.66 Fire Fund-$126,465.61 Liquor Fund-$503.70, Road Fund-$15,176.25. 

Erickson motioned, seconded by Walmhoff 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 1, 2019 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to adjourn at 7:00 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Planning & Zoning Mtg Quarterly Minutes, May, 2019

Skanee Townhall

PUBLIC HEARING MAY 15, 2019

CALL TO ORDER:  6:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL AND RECOGNITION OF VISITORS:  Bette Gabe, Chairperson; Keith Erickson,

Township Board Representative; Ken Anderson, Zoning Administrator; Jay Loman, Trustee; Mary Deline, Trustee, Linnea Barron, Secretary.  Absent:  Dorothy Nankervis, Trustee, prior commitment. 

Visitors:  Pete and Jean Suomela, Burt and Raelyn Mason, Bob Kissel, Nancy and Whitey Soli, Joe and Sue Bollech, Katherine Andrews.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:  Minutes from January 9, 2019 meeting:  Keith made a motion to accept the minutes, seconded by Jay Loman, all approved, motion carried.

Minutes from special meeting/work session, February 6, 2019:  Jay made a motion to accept the minutes, seconded by Mary, all approved, motion carried.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA:  Keith made a motion to accept the agenda, seconded by Mary, all approved, motion carried.

INTRODUCE UPDATED ZONING MAP, ZONING TEXT CORRECTIONS, AND ZONING TEXT AMENDMENTS:

  1. Copies of zoning map:  Bette explained that we have had ten revisions to our zoning map.  We have been working with Steve Rouser from WUPPDR to revise the map for clarity, good colors, roads and rivers identified.  No changes to the zoning districts were made.  Copies of the map were distributed and reviewed. 

Katherine Andrews had a question about a setback of 75 feet from rivers be shown, and that is in text in our ordinance. 

Whitey Soli requested that the nature conservancies, that are not taxable, be shown as well.  We have lost revenue due to these conservancies with more land being applied for as a conservancy.  (This is unique to this area and is not a statewide issue.)  He wondered if those areas could be shown in a different color to be visible, that these properties need to be a different district or a different designation, and maybe a plan for usage.  He stated that programs like commercial forest, and qualified forest land have to have a plan for usage to qualify for programs.  Bette stated this is a tax issue and that our ordinance does not get into this. 

  • ​Text corrections: 
    • In ARTICLE V – R-1B General Residential District, under Section 502. Required

Conditions, page 45; and ARTICLE VII – RR Recreational Residential, under

Section 702. Required Conditions, page 48; and ARTICLE IX – FR Forest

Resource, under section 902. Required Conditions page 51; and ARTICLE X –

FF Farm Forest Districts, section 1002. Required Conditions, page 53; and ARTICLE XI – B-1 Business District, section 1102. Required Conditions, page 55; and ARTICLE XII – Industrial District, section 1202. Required Conditions Water Frontage, page 57: 

The sentence shall read:  Small non-habitable structures such as utility buildings may be permitted within the minimum setback upon the approval of the Zoning Administrator.  (not Planning Commission)

  • Article XVII – Administration; Section 1700. General Administration:

                        The provisions of this ordinance shall be administered by the Zoning

                        Administrator who shall be appointed by the Township Board.  (Not Planning                         Commission)

  • Under Section 901, Special Uses Permitted (Alternative Energy Sources),                          under C. Safety:  The minimum vertical blade tip clearance from grade shall                         be seventy-five (75) feet for a wind energy system employing a horizontal                         axis rotor.  (Correction made from 20 feet to 75 feet, an oversight.)
  • ​Text amendments​:
    • The amendment to the height of a utility grid wind energy system over 20 meters high and anemometer towers over 20 meters was discussed by the Planning Commission and amended to be three hundred feet (300 feet).  We felt this was necessary for aesthetic and view shed purposes.  This change can be found in Section 901, Principal Uses Permitted Subject to Special Conditions and Section

1502. Alternative Energy Sources; to read:  A Utility Grid Wind Energy System, On-site Use Wind Energy System, and Anemometer towers over 20 meters (65.6 feet) high and not to exceed 300 feet from the ground level to the tip of the wind generator blade when the tip is at its highest point, shall meet the following standards, Article XIV of this Ordinance. 

  • Add to Section 1502, Alternative Energy Sources, Section 901 Principal Uses Permitted Subject to Special Conditions, Property Setbacks, #2, add letter ‘e’, to read:  Utility Grid Wind Energy Systems shall be spaced a minimum of one (1) mile apart from one another.  This was for density and less harmful to birds of all species.  The Fish and Wildlife recommendation was anywhere from ½ mile to 2 miles apart.
    • Add to Section 1502, Alternative Energy Sources, Section 901 Principal Uses Permitted Subject to Special Conditions, Property Setbacks, #1, add letter ‘d’ and #2, add letter ‘f’ to read:  d.  Anemometer towers shall meet a minimum setback of seven (7) miles landward from the shoreline of Lake Superior and Huron Bay. f.  Utility Grid Wind energy Systems shall meet a minimum setback of seven (7) miles landward from the shorelines of Lake Superior and Huron Bay.  After reviewing our Forest Resource District on the map we felt it was necessary to have a setback from Lake Superior/Huron Bay, residential areas, wetlands, rivers, and bird migration.  The Fish and Wildlife suggested anywhere from 3 to

10 miles and the Planning Commission felt 7 miles was best.   This would account for 10-12% of total township area and we were hard pressed to find anywhere that they would fit.  Bette also stated that on the seal of Michigan in latin the meaning states, “if you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you.”

  • Add to Section 1502, Alternative Energy Sources, Section 901 Principal Uses

Permitted Subject to Special Conditions, Property Setbacks, under letter “C”, Safety, add sentence:  Utility Grid Wind Energy Systems and Anemometer Towers shall have built-in fire detection systems and fire suppression systems. This was felt necessary due to the remoteness of the area and the difficulty of resources to fight a fire in that area.

  • Add to Section 1502, Alternative Energy Sources, Section 901 Principal Uses Permitted Subject to Special Conditions, Property Setbacks, letter ‘H’, #2, add small letter ‘a’, to read:  Blades shall be feathered from dusk till dawn.  This is for the protection of bats as that is when they are active.

Bette also prepared references of the Planning Commission decisions for the amendments concerning Utility Grid Energy Systems with standards in our Ordinance, Land Use Plan and Recreation Plan.

OPENING OF PUBLIC COMMENTS:  Time:  6:35 p.m. 

Pete Suomela:  We are on the right track. Burt Mason:  Lots of time devoted to this.

Brian Kissel: No comment but supportive.

Joe Bolleck:  Good job.

Katherine Andrews:  Commended us.  She never thought L’Anse Township would have had to deal with this.  They trusted an engineer and didn’t do their own homework. Sue:  We have done a good job.

Close of public comments:  Time:  6:48 p.m.

PUBLIC HEARING IS CLOSED AND REGULAR MEETING AGENDA CONTINUES:

Commission members were ready to continue with all the proposed updated zoning map, zoning text corrections and zoning text amendments as presented.  Jay made a motion to accept the map, corrections and amendments, seconded by Keith.  Record of results:  Jay Loman, yes; Mary Deline, yes; Linnea Barron, yes; Bette Gabe, yes; Keith Erickson, yes. Motion approved by all and carried. 

ADJOURNMENT:  Keith made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Jay, all approved and motion carried.

Submitted by Linnea Barron, Secretary

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Township Board Mtg Minutes May, 2019

Picture from Mt. Arvon

MAY 6, 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 May 6, 2019.            

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

MINUTES APPROVAL: Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the April 1, 2019 minutes.  All in favor, motion passed.

AGENDA APPROVAL:   Soli requests “Building permits”, “Cemetery survey bids”, and “Township Insurance” under “New Business”. Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the agenda with the additions.   All in favor, motion passed.

PUBLIC COMMENT:   Bette Gabe let the board know that the Planning Commission Board should either have 5, 7 or 9 members.  As of now the board has 6 members.  Marinich will put an ad in the paper for another board member.      

OLD BUSINESS:   Land use will be tabled until next month’s meeting.   

-Wendy Goodreau talked about the Baraga Co. Branding Phase 1.  The county is asking the township for a one time cost of $1,000.00 towards this project.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve the $1,000.00.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Fire fighters will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Township attorney will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Samantha Larson, James Hahn and Chris Wahmhoff applied for the Township Trustee position.  After discussion, Board members Soli, Marinich, Larson and Erickson all approved Chris Wahmhoff for the trustee position.  All in favor, motion passed.  Marinich will swear him in after the meeting.

-Anderson let the board know that a fine of $1,000 for not applying for a building application is too high.  The max a township can fine is $500.00.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the $500.00 fine.  All in favor, motion passed.

-Cemetery survey bids will be tabled until next month’s meeting.                                                                                                           

NEW BUSINESS: There were two bids for the Skanee Cemetery clean up.  Royal Lawn Care-$2,000.00 and McMahan Lawn Care-$2,200.00.  Larson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve the Royal Lawn Care bid.  All in favor, motion passed.

-The Township insurance premium is due with Hannula Agency.  The amount is the same as last year$11,294.00.  Erickson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve the amount.  All in favor, motion passed.

JAMES FEDIE:  Fedie let the board know that there will be an AMAR audit for 2020.  He is working on the data base and rolled things over on May 1, 2019.

MAIL CALL:  Marinich received a letter from Rukkila for preparation of the form F-65 for fiscal year end 3/31/19. Larson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve the preparation from Rukkila.  All in favor, motion passed.

 TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$231,569.32

Ambulance/EMT Fund-$31,409.66 Fire Fund-$135,846.01 Liquor Fund-$548.36, Road Fund-$15,289.65. 

Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.        

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

NEXT MEETING DATE:   The next meeting date will be June 3, 2019 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to adjourn at 7:00 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Township Board Mtg Minutes April, 2019

Picture of Flower

APRIL 1, 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 April 1, 2019.            

ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS PRESENT: James Soli-Supervisor, Krystal Larson-Treasurer-absent, Lisa MarinichClerk, Karl Gipp-Trustee-absent, Keith Erickson-Trustee.

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

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

PUBLIC COMMENT:           

OLD BUSINESS:  Bette Gabe asked about the planning and zoning training.   Marinich will send out the money for Soli and Gabe.  $275.00 for each person

NEW BUSINESS: Wendy Goodreau presented to the township Baraga County Branding Phase 1.  The objective in the branding process is to establish a county identity that will promote Baraga County as not only a place to visit, but a place to live, work and start a business.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-It was brought to the board’s attention that other townships and counties in the area pay their fire fighters for meeting and fires.  This will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Township attorney will be tabled until next month’s meeting.

-Karl Gipp has sent the board a letter of resignation from the trustee position.  Marinich will put and add in the paper for the available position.  Table until next month’s meeting.  

JAMES FEDIE:   

 MAIL CALL:   

 TREASURER’S REPORT: Marinich gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$231,648.84   

Ambulance/EMT Fund-$33,680.36 Fire Fund-$137,645.44 Liquor Fund-$593.02, Road Fund-$15,289.65. 

Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.        

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

NEXT MEETING DATE:   The next meeting date will be May 6, 2019 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

ADJOURN: Marinich motioned, seconded by Erickson to adjourn at 6:30 P.M.  All in favor, motion passed.

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Township Board Mtg Minutes, March, 2019

Picture of a Loon

MARCH 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 March 4, 2019.            

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

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

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

PUBLIC COMMENT:   Dorothy Nankervis and Bette Gabe asked if the Township has found a new attorney.  

This will be tabled until next month’s regular meeting.   

-Gabe met with Pat Coleman, he would be willing to update the township Land Use Plan.  The cost would be $9,000.00.  This will be tabled until the next regular board meeting.     

-Gabe let the board know that the Planning Commission will be holding their quarterly meeting in April.           

OLD BUSINESS

NEW BUSINESS:

JAMES FEDIE:   

MAIL CALL:   

 TREASURER’S REPORT: Larson gave the monthly Treasurer’s Report.  General Fund-$231,363.47

Ambulance/EMT Fund-$33,680.36 Fire Fund-$139,549.55 Liquor Fund-$682.34, Road Fund-$15,289.65. 

Marinich motioned, seconded by Larson to approve the Treasurer’s Report.  All in favor, motion passed.        BILL APPROVAL:  Larson motioned, seconded by Marinich to approve the bills.   All in favor, motion passed

NEXT MEETING DATE:   The next meeting date will be April 1, 2019 at 6:00 P.M. at the Fire hall.

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

Lisa M. Marinich/Arvon Township Clerk

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Planning & Zoning Special Mtg Minutes February, 2019

Skanee Townhall

ARVON TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING

February 6, 2019

CALL TO ORDER:  Meeting brought to order at 6:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL AND RECOGNITION OF VISITORS:  Bette Gabe, Chairperson; Keith Erickson,

Township Board Representative; Dorothy Nankervis, Trustee, Jay Loman, Trustee, Mary Deline, Trustee, Linnea Barron, Secretary.  There were 20 visitors, sign up sheet with names is attached with minutes.

PRESENTATION BY BURT MASON, FRIENDS OF THE HURON MOUNTAINS:  Burt Mason

presented a 3-D visual view shed (created in conjunction with Michigan Tech) of large wind turbines if they are erected in L’Anse Township.  The view shed made it clearer how visible the turbines would be from any proposed location in Baraga County as noted on a map of Baraga County.   Burt addressed several questions from those attending.  The feeling from those present was that this was very informative.

Burt also brought a scale model of a proposed wind turbine in comparison to the surrounding trees, buildings, and people.

PUBLIC COMMENT/QUESTIONS:  None.

OLD BUSINESS: 

  1. Utility wind turbines – proposed amendments discussion; wording of and placement in zoning ordinance text.
    1. Height not to exceed 300 feet from tip of blade at its highest point.  Discussion to add to description on page 50, page 80 and page 88 of the Ordinance.
    1. Require a minimum distance of 5-7 miles from shorelines landward of Lake Superior and Huron Bay.  Motion made at January 9, 2019, meeting for 7 miles. This would be added to page 84, property setback, #2, under e.
    1. Require a combination of built-in fire detection system and fire suppression system for each turbine.   This would be added to page 84 under safety as a separate sentence.
    1. Require spacing of utility turbines be at least ½ to 2 miles apart from one another, or use some other measurement?  After discussion Mary made a motion and Jay seconded to have the distance be 1 mile between wind turbines, all approved, motion carried.  This would be stated also on page 84, property setback, #2, under f.
    1. Require “feathering” of blades?  Discussion of why this was necessary for protection of bats who fly at night.  Feathering means the blades would be twisted (angled) from dusk to dawn for more protection of the bats.  Motion made

by Jay and seconded by Keith to add this into the Ordinance.  This would be on page 86, H, #2, Avian and Wildlife Impact, letter a added.

  • Also on page 84, under Safety, a correction was necessary from 20 feet to 75 feet in reference to the minimum blade tip clearance from grade.  (An oversight)
  • There are changes in the ordinance to clarify Utility Buildings.  The zoning administrator should have authority over these and not the planning commission as stated in our zoning book. Corrections to pages 45, 48, 51, 53, 55, and 57.
  • On page 118 in our Ordinance, Article XVII-Administration, Section 1700, should read The provisions of this ordinance….appointed by the Township Board; not Planning Commission. Motion changed this.

NEXT QUARTERLY MEETING DATE – April 10, 2019

ADJOURNMENT:  Jay made a motion to dismiss, seconded by Dorothy, all approved. Adjourned at 7:15 P.M.

Submitted by Linnea Barron, Secretary

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