COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING MINUTES

The regular meeting of the Columbia Township Board was called to order by Burgett. Present were Grahek, May, Landers, and Harrington. 20 people also attended.

Minutes of the previous regular meeting were read and approved with a motion by Landers, seconded by May. Carried unanimously.

Treasurer's Report was read by May and was approved as follows:

Investment activity included Road Fund purchase of $20,000 invest.

Motion by Grahek, seconded by Harrington. Roll call vote unanimous.

Clerk's Report of monthly expenditures was read and approved as follows: Gen Fund bills $23,447.20, Road Fund inv. $20,000.00. Motion by Harrington, seconded by Burgett. Roll call vote unanimous.

Proposed road projects were discussed: Dust control, mowing, ditching, Bessey Drain, gravel, prep. 47th St. for paving, prep. 8th Ave. for paving, finish paving on 14th Ave., first coat of paving on 51st St., seal coat north end of 49th St. and 51 1/2 St.

Landers moved to approve all the projects, seconded by Burgett. Carried by 4 votes, with Harrington opposing, citing that 51st St. is not ready for paving.

Burgett announced that an irate taxpayer might be sueing the Township, and suggested a meeting. Grahek moved to approve a meeting between all parties involved, including the Twp Attorney, insurance representative, and Twp Officials, with the stipulation that nothing would be agreed upon without Board approval. Seconded by Burgett. Carried by unanimous roll call vote.

The Board discussed a proposed resolution endorsing the concept of a 35 MPH speed limit near Upper Jeptha Lake. Grahek introduced a resolution to that effect, seconded by Burgett, carried by unanimous roll call vote.

The Board discussed with Consumers Energy representative Bill Mabin a proposed 30 year franchise renewal for Consumers Energy. Burgett said he was awaiting legal counsel. Grahek then moved to table the issue until the Board is in receipt of that legal counsel. Seconded by May. Carried by 4 votes. Harrington opposed, citing that the franchise is similar to the current one.

BBACG Rep. Goss announced that the Fire Board approved housing the Sheriff's car in the Grand Jct. Fire Station if the "COPS" grant goes through. The Board then discussed a new Ambulance Authority with him. The Board informally agreed to a workshop where BBACG personnel could present their case for forming one.

Hospital Rep. Jan Conway announced that the hospital has begun its new construction, and that it would probably take all summer. She also announced that they expected to have their own Orthopedic Surgeon by July.

Grahek moved to adjourn, seconded by Burgett. Carried unanimously.

Meeting adjourned at 9:11 PM.

Gerald P. Grahek

Columbia Township Clerk