COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING MINUTES

The Regular Meeting of the Columbia Township Board was called to order by Supervisor Beckwith. Present were Beckwith, Speicher, May, Harrington and Landers. In attendance were 38 individuals.

Donuts and Refreshments were provided (no Township Funds) to honor the accomplishments of the Columbia Township Bookstation Committee. The members of the Bookstation have worked very hard in obtaining the old American Legion Building and cleaning the adjacent site (Kelly Building) in preparation of locating a Bookstation (community activity center for children). These members have spent a huge amount of time and energy in holding events to raise money. They are an inspiration to the community.

Consent Agenda: August 15, 2000, regular meeting, September expenses through September 17, 2000.

Speicher moved to approve the consent agenda with the exception of the treasurer’s report, seconded by Landers. Carried unanimously.

Treasurer’s Report: May read the treasurer’s report, Speicher moved to approve the treasurer’s report, seconded by Harrington. Carried unanimously.

Clerk’s Report: Invoices received after preparing the consent agenda.

Speicher moved to approve the additional invoices for payment, seconded by Harrington. Carried unanimously.

Residents using the access stated the pile of dirt along the access to the lake was made this spring by the adjacent property owner. This action has made it more difficult to back boat trailers into the lake. Lonny Johnson stated he could provide pictures of the access prior to this spring which would show the previous condition.

Deputy Sheriff Report: 71 calls this month. The Deputy Sheriff answered questions regarding garbage being thrown on property, and knowing of persons who have committed crimes, but are not arrested. Residents asked for information about known criminals so residences can be on the lookout for vehicles matching descriptions.

Fire Chief: October 8th through 14th is Fire Prevention Week. Fall is just around the corner - residents need burn permits for open burning. Our goal is to reduce the number of grass fires within the township. All permits must be in writing signed by the fire chief or assistance fire chief. Call and leave a message at the township hall and someone will review the site and if acceptable issue a permit. Burning on roadways is not acceptable.

Fire Prevention Week: Each year when you change clocks for daylight savings remember to change batteries in all household smoke detectors. Prior to the next regular meeting the fire association will provide instruction for all ages on two ways out of a burning building. The instructions will begin at 5:30 pm and last to 7:00 pm prior to the township board meeting at the township hall all the fire trucks will be at the township hall for review and inspection.

Southwest Michigan Burn Camp: The Columbia Township Fire Fighter’s Association is holding its first annual "Big Buck Contest" where 50% of the money collected will go to the winner and the other 50% to the burn camp and the Columbia Township Fire Fighter’s Association. This is a very good cause and flyers will be available at most business in the area.

Planning Commission: At the last meeting of the Planning Commission Gove Associates was selected to help in preparing a revision to the master plan. The Planning Commission has held two public hearings and attendance was small, but there appears to be support for the revision. The master plan consultant will be using information gathered from the residents on how the growth of the township should be guided in future years. The public needs to be involved to get the best results. There is also a person requesting a special use permit on 49th Street which was going to be discussed tonight but proper notification has not occurred. The Special Use Public Hearing will be held prior to the Planning Commission meeting on October 3, 2000 at 7:00 pm.

May moved to approve the new Bookstation officers, seconded by Landers. Carried unanimously.

Hospital: Four-week cholesterol management and healthy cooking classes will begin on Tuesday September 12th at the Warren Center. A free clinic for area diabetic children is starting on September 20th at the hospital. New members have been added to the Hospital board replacing retiring board members. The hospital has a new role of being a teaching hospital with two new doctors added to the staff in their final two years of residency training.

Recreation: Jeff Gasper has been working on finishing the ball field. The fence is up and stones will be placed under the bleachers and around the dugouts. There has been some activity on the ball field since the base lines and fence has been installed.