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. 47 people also attended.

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

Treasurer's report was read and approved as follows:

Motion by Grahek, seconded by Harrington. Carried unanimously.

Clerk's report of monthly expenditures was read and approved as follows:

General Fund: $21,948.62 Road Fund: $12,535.65

Motion by Landers, Seconded by Grahek. Carried by 4 votes. Harrington voting No.

Deputy Batten reported more B&E's on CR 384. He suggested recording the serial numbers of your possessions. He also reported that a speed study showed no need for a reduced speed limit near Jep Lake.

Several audience members asked about the possibility of rescinding the DNR Watercraft Control Ordinance for Saddle Lake. There was some discussion, and Harrington moved to table the issue pending legal counsel. Seconded by Grahek, carried unanimously.

In connection with Dave Goss' resignation from the Fire Board, May offered a resolution recognizing the 50 years of service to the Fire Dept. by the Goss family. Grahek seconded, carried unanimously.

The Board discussed a replacement Fire Board member. May moved that the nominees submit a letter by Jan. 2 listing their qualifications and stating what they would like to see done; then they would be interviewed by the Board at a special meeting on Jan. 6 at 7:30.

Seconded by Grahek, carried unanimously.

Fire Board Rep. Goss announced the Fire Board would hold a special meeting on Dec. 22 regarding ambulance service. He then thanked the Board for its recognition of his family's service.

VBC Comm. DeLeo announced that John Murphy had declined the job of VBC Administrator.

Jan Conway announced that the Hospital's new heliport would temporarily be next to the parking lot.

Grahek announced that the Planning Commission had unanimously reappointed Estavillo as the Zoning Administrator, and moved that the Board approve the appointment. Harrington seconded. Carried by 4 votes with Burgett voting No.

There was a brief discussion about the ongoing need for an organizational chart and well defined job descriptions.

Zoning Administrator Estavillo refuted allegations made at the previous regular meeting.

Some people voiced concern that 8th Avenue has not been paved yet.

May announced that Board members will meet with Bloomingdale Fire Chief and with the South Haven Fire Board to look into more options for the Twp.

May moved to adjourn, seconded by Harrington. Meeting adjourned at 9:30 PM.

Gerald P. Grahek

Columbia Township Clerk