March 6th, 2024 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Monthly Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each monthat 7 pm at the Township Hall
Budget Amendment to increase the elections budget by $2500, the Cemetery budget by $250 and the Buildings and Grounds budget by $450. Approved
County Commissioner Sauer reported: The State is concerned about election costs after totaling the costs from every Township. The State may move to limit voting sites to one or two in every county.
The Roads Department is concerned about rising asphalt costs.
The Parks and Rec Department would like lands in possession of the Roads Department to be turned over to them.
Benzie Chamber Summit reporting that Spectrum is done installing fiber optics.
Thompsonville Revitalization Project: Plans for the Railroad Car Crossing, A possible campground improvement with showers and state licensing along with looking for a $400,000 DNR grant. The city has approximately $75,000 in hand for this project. The Betsie Valley Trail goes through the campground and will hopefully be paved.
Elberta is reviewing its master plan. Their planning commission is now fully staffed.
The Point Betsie Lighthouse project is on hold due to some concerns from EGLE. A grant with need to be extended by 5 months.
The County Health Department is concerned about possible TB exposure in the county cattle herds and may want to do testing. The DNR will weigh in on this.
Correspondence: The Township is corresponding with banks about how to get higher interest rates on its accounts.
Old Business: Fiscal Year General Appropriations, Salary Resolutions and Appointed Positions compensation were all approved.
New Business: The Cemetery Maintenance Contract was approved with Signature Services to provide upkeep.
Township Hall Cleaning Services:The person who was providing cleaning services cannot continue. He was paid for one hour of work at $24/hr. No action was taking on finding a replacement.
Board Members Comments: Dodie Putney(clerk) reported that we had 28 early voters for the nine day early voting period. There were three poll workers every day at a cost of $15/hr/person, along with the clerk onsite. The election costs were paid for by the State of Michigan. She is hoping that more people will turn out for early voting as word gets around going into the August and November elections. Combining with another Township or state input on how many polling places per county might be ideas about bringing down costs for elections. The Township still has not been reimbursed for the new ballot box.
Adjourned
Next meeting scheduled April 3rd, 2024, 7:00pm Joyfield Township Hall.
Precinct Delegates Note: We will have August and November elections this year and with the 9 day early voting requirements Joyfield Township is in desperate need of election workers. Please consider giving your time to do this.
Contact Clerk Dodie Putney at: 231/649-0614 or email:
[email protected] for more information!
Respectfully submitted by Paul Marcussen
ALL TOWNSHIP POSITIONS WILL BE UP FOR ELECTION NEXT YEAR!!!!
WE NEED Dem-friendly folks to run for office. Interested??? Email us at: [email protected] . We have people that can help and support you through every step of the process!!
We are all always looking for SUBS for Lookouts when we are away, to go to the Township meeting and do a write up. If interested, drop us a line at: [email protected]
February 7th, 2024 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Monthly Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7 pm at the Township Hall
Call to Order. Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call: Ted Wook sitting in for Matt, Jim, Mark, Trish, Dodie
Approve Agenda Budget Amendment – none Approved
Consent Agenda approved.
Minutes:
Regular Board Meeting January 3, 2024, Treasurer’s Report and Bills to Pay
Public Input:
Benzie Bus Presentation:
Jessica Carland, executive Director, presented her yearly presentation. Problems with supply chains, Costs up $30,000.00 per vehicle. Just received two new vehicles that are up and running. Two buses and one minivan are for sale. Some difficulty finding drivers due to passing the drug testing. There are times of the day that are difficult to get a ride. Customers have been flexible. Surveys are going to be sent out to see if people going to the same places can go at the same times. Looking at extending evening hours, Saturday and Sunday hrs. with the new plans that will start in the next 3 to 5 yrs. Medical transportation has increased, up 67%. They are trying to increase some regular routes like a city. They are also looking at starting Uber style rides. Ridership is up 20% this year.
Reports:
Commissioner Sauer & Planning Commission:
This will be the last year of the Iron Man in Frankfort. They will be using the same courses as before. The Roads Commission is demolishing Platte River school.
Thompsonville Parks and Recreation needs two new wells, no bids for meters yet. Rate $47.60 per month for 2 years, until real costs can be determined.
Elberta is almost done with their water projects. There will be money left over. Health department needs bids for furniture, hoping to be done by the end of March.
County ready to move on with the Headley roll back. No changes to current millages. Commissioners have the final say if it will be put on the ballot.
Maples, the big generator for the whole building, went out. It was sent downstate. John Deere people are working on it, at a cost of $42,000 to repair.
NMC: Benzie County is looking at trying to be annexed into the college service area in order to bring down costs for the county’s students. This was tried in the past with Leelanau County, and it didn’t work. A new 2.5 mileage would have to be approved to bring in approximately 3 million/ year.
Matzinger, Watervale and Elberta Resort roads will be redone with new gravel around Lower Herring Lake.
The Nature Conservancy acquired 32,000 acres for the Keweenaw Heartlands Project.
The Planning Commission is looking at a Citizens Initiative concerning solar panels and windmills. Axemytax.org: Looking to eliminate property taxes. The state would provide funding. Petitions have been made up and are coming out.
Zoning:
The property on Kast Road has been sold and new owners are responsible for the clean-up and will be monitored. Cleanup has started.
Correspondence Old Business New Business:
Motion to approve budget Trish and 2nd Matt – budget passed. FY2024/2025 Proposed Budget – $130.000.00 in revenues with money coming in at a modest rate. The new budget projection is $128,980. We have had $166,150 in expenditures. We have a $35,850 negative balance, at this time. There is a $10,000.00 increase for election costs. The state should reimburse some of this for both elections. There is a modest increase for roads and cemetery costs this year. FY2024/2025 Proposed Salary Rates Recommending increase in board members salaries. Election inspectors to $15.00 per hr. Trustees– $500.00 salary increase.
Township Clerk:
$2,000.00 increase in salary to the Clerk due to additional hrs. needed to complete work associated with new rules for the election. FY 2024/2025 Meeting Dates – 1 st Wednesday of the month. January 1, 2025, is a Wednesday, it was approved to be on January 2, 2025. Motion proposed and approved.
Poverty Exemption Resolution for property tax.
Resolution 2024-1. Motion proposed and approved. Exemptions must meet state guidelines. Guidelines based on income and ownership of property(deed). There will be an annual review. Health problems, debts and expenses of the owner will be taken into account. Application forms are in the Township Hall. These will be forwarded to the Board of Review after completion. The Board of Review will meet in March. Dates to be determined and will be posted in the paper and on the Township Hall Website.
Public Input – none.
Board Members Comments – none.
Adjournment FY 2024/2025 Budget
Public Hearing; March 6, 2024, 6:30 pm Joyfield Township Hall
Next meeting scheduled March 6, 2023, 7:00pm Joyfield Township Hall.
NOTE from Clerk Putney: Your Township Needs You for help during the 9 day voting period before the election. Please call or email Dodie Putney at 231-649-0614, joyfield.township.clerk@gmail.
Precinct Delegates Note:
We will have February, August and November elections next year and with the 9 day early voting requirements Joyfield Township is in desperate need of election workers. Please consider giving your time to do this.
Contact Clerk Dodie Putney at: 231/649-0614 or email:
joyfield.township.clerk@gmail.
Respectfully submitted by Paul Marcussen
ALL TOWNSHIP POSITIONS WILL BE UP FOR ELECTION NEXT YEAR!!!!
WE NEED Dem-friendly folks to run for office. Interested??? Email us at: [email protected] . We have people that can help and support you through every step of the process!!
We are all always looking for SUBS for Lookouts when we are away, to go to the Township meeting and do a write up. If interested, drop us a line at: [email protected]
Jan. 3, 2024 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Monthly Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7 pm at the Township Hall
Call to Order
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call: Trish Dougherty, Matt Emery, Jim Evans, Mark Evans, Dodie Putney
Approve Agenda: Approved
Budget Amendments: Cemetery line item & election line Item: resolved.
Approve Consent Agenda: Approved
Minutes: Regular Board Meeting December 6, 2024, Treasurer’s Report and Bills were approved.
Public Input: None
Reports: Commissioner Sauer & Planning Commission:
Weldon, Gilmore and Blaine are against the roll back of the Headlee Amendment. If Benzie County townships are not in favor, the county will not pursue it.
On Jan.16, the Village of Elberta is having a public hearing about approving a 6 ft. fence around privately owned land along the waterfront. A 3 ft. fence is also being discussed. Concerns expressed are that people have been fishing there all their lives and that this could thwart the idea of extending the Betsie Valley Trail to Lake Michigan.
The Road Commission awarded a bid for the demolition of the old Platte River School. Demolition should take place in February or March. The State Police Department wants to test its new Bear Cat to batter down the walls. They may add some explosives.
The County received an education grant of $17,300 from the Marijuana fund for Health Department education related expenditures such as bill boards and lock boxes.
The County Board will continue to meet the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 9 a.m. Bob Roelofs was re-elected chairman.
Correspondence: None
Old Business: County roll back of Headlee Amendment
A vote of the board was taken to see if Joyfield would support the rollback. Unanimously opposed. New Business: None
Public Input: Question about rural dumping problem. Three of four problem properties are making progress on their cleanup. One property owner is being difficult to deal with. Resolution is ongoing. All properties are owned by absentee landowners. Groundwater contamination issues, if any, will be referred to the state.
A local resident was upset with Jack O’Malley being “forced out” by communists and marxists and Walter Ruether being murdered by the CIA. Ranting continued until he was shut down by Supervisors Emery.
The township passed the election audit. The new security camera has been mounted and secured. FOIA will allow viewing of the security footage.
Adjournment
Next meeting scheduled February 7, 2024, 7:00 p.m, at Joyfield Township Hall
NOTE from Clerk Putney: Your Township Needs You for help during the 9 day voting period before the election. Please call or email Dodie Putney at 231-649-0614, joyfield.township.clerk@gmail.
Precinct Delegates Note:
We will have February, August and November elections next year and with the 9 day early voting requirements Joyfield Township is in desperate need of election workers. Please consider giving your time to do this.
Contact Clerk Dodie Putney at: 231/649-0614 or email:
joyfield.township.clerk@gmail.
Respectfully submitted by Paul Marcussen
ALL TOWNSHIP POSITIONS WILL BE UP FOR ELECTION NEXT YEAR!!!!
WE NEED Dem-friendly folks to run for office. Interested??? Email us at: [email protected] . We have people that can help and support you through every step of the process!!
We are all always looking for SUBS for Lookouts when we are away, to go to the Township meeting and do a write up. If interested, drop us a line at: [email protected]
December 6, 2023 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Monthly Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7 pm at the Township Hall
Call to Order
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call – Matt, Dodie, Trish, and Jim
Approve Agenda-Approved
Budget Amendments:
Movements made and approved to add $500 to the Cemetery Line item and $3000 to the Elections Line item to get through the end of the year.
Public Input – none
Reports:
Commissioner Sauer & Planning Commission: The Maples approved Megan Garza to be the new administrator. The Maples has 78 beds occupied, this is full capacity and there is a waiting list.
The Village of Elberta sewer project has been completed. The train needs rebuilding at Penfold Park. Gilmore township has temporary employment for an election inspector, who would make up to $15.00 per hr.
No Headlee resolution action taken in Gilmore township. If Townships are not in favor of the Headlee amendment rollback; the county will not pursue it. The county may reevaluate special millages.
Correspondence: Charter will be adding HD & a Latino package to their services.
Old Business:
Township Hall Security Camera:
Three companies made bids for a new Video Surveillance system and installation at the Joyfield Hall;
1. ETS $3,269.00 plus tax Then $30.00 per month.
2. Navon company estimate of $3,360.50 equipment and installation and then $30.00 per month.
3. Anavon company $1,348.00 equipment and installation and nothing per month. Motion made and approved – to accept Anavon’s bid.
Other townships have already used Avavon services. The state will reimburse Townships for this equipment.
New Business Planning Commission Member Reappointments:
Motion made and approved for both Gerald Wilgus & Mike Evans to be reappointed to the Planning Commission for 3 yrs. Board of Review Reappointments – Ted Wood & Robert Meyers & Ed Kowalski. Approved
Payment for Services:
Benzonia Public Library & Benzie Area Historical Society – A Motion made and approved to make payment of $500,to each, for services.
Deputy Supervisor Matt, needs a substitute in Feb and Mar. 2024, as he will not be available. He recommended Ted Wood. Seconded and approved. Ted will be paid the same as a deputy treasurer.
Public Input: none
Board Members Comments: none
Adjournment 7:18 pm
Next meeting scheduled January 3, 2024, 7:00 pm Joyfield Township Hall
Precinct Delegates Note: We will have February, August and November elections next year and with the 9 day early voting requirements Joyfield Township is in desperate need of election workers. Please consider giving your time to do this.
Contact Clerk Dodie Putney at: 231/649-0614 or email:
joyfield.township.clerk@gmail.
Respectfully submitted by Paul Marcussen
ALL TOWNSHIP POSITIONS WILL BE UP FOR ELECTION NEXT YEAR!!!!
WE NEED Dem-friendly folks to run for office. Interested??? Email us at: [email protected] . We have people that can help and support you through every step of the process!!
We are all always looking for SUBS for Lookouts when we are away, to go to the Township meeting and do a write up. If interested, drop us a line at: [email protected]
November 1, 2023 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Call to Order 7PM
Agenda Approved
Budget Amendment: The Cemetery Fund has only $12.00 left. Motion to increase by $1100.00 in order to cover the irrigation bill. Approved.
Pubic Input: None
Commissioner Sauer’s Report: Not present as he had a hip replaced.
Planning Commission Report by Betsy Evans: There has been some progress on cleaning up illegal dump sites. There is a potential sale of the Cass Rd. site. Solar and Wind energy bills at the state level concerning removing local controls for siting these projects are not supported by Joyfield Township government.(See new business).
Correspondence: None
Old Business:
Township Hall Painting: Quality Painting and Home Repair bid $5,693 to paint the Town Hall and another $1,000 to paint the shed. This includes 2 coats of Benjamin Moore soft gloss to be done June or July of 2024.
Also, the roof of the shed needs attention and would add another $1,000 to do. Roof to be aluminum in color. Another company bid $21,250. There were on two bids. Motion to accept the lower bid approved.
Early Voting Plan: 9 day early voting has been approved. The Township is a stand alone entity and must provide for this. Tabulators must be in a locked room (we will have 2) within the Township Hall. The security camera must be monitored 75 days prior to the election, which is the last Tuesday in February of 2024. The State will bear the cost of the security system and installation, but not storage of data retention. The state has directed Townships to refer to their own Video and Audio retention rules. Joyfield Township has no such rules. The Township will send out a letter to the Secretary of State for guidance about this as well as what type of video equipment will be needed. The Township will also consult with TKS about video systems.
New Business:
Local Land Use Resolution; Retention of Local Control: The Township Board will send a letter to our local state representative and all the members of the State Senate Energy Committee stating that Joyfield Township is opposed to losing local land use controls for siting such things as sand and gravel pits, alternative energy projects, short term rental, etc. Apparently the House has already passed these bills.
Motion to pay election workers after the November 7th 2023 election. Motion approved.
Precinct Delegates Note: We will have February, August and November elections next year and with the 9 day early voting requirements Joyfield Township is in desperate need of election workers. Please consider giving your time to do this.
Contact Clerk Dodie Putney at: 231/649-0614 or email:
joyfield.township.clerk@gmail.
Respectfully submitted by Paul Marcussen
ALL TOWNSHIP POSITIONS WILL BE UP FOR ELECTION NEXT YEAR!!!!
WE NEED Dem-friendly folks to run for office. Interested??? Email us at: [email protected] . We have people that can help and support you through every step of the process!!
We are all always looking for SUBS for Lookouts when we are away, to go to the Township meeting and do a write up. If interested, drop us a line at: [email protected]
August 2, 2023 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Monthly Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month
at 7 pm at the Township Hall
Call to Order today; Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call – Mark, Matt, Jim, Trish and Dodie
Approve Agenda, it was Approved
Minutes: Regular board meeting July 5th, 2023, Treasurer’s Report and Bills to Pay approved
Public Input – none
Reports:
Commissioner Sauer & Planning Commission:
Road commission meeting for Brown school, they will do the work themselves.
The Road Commission is looking for a new manager, they have 3 applications.
Henry road has been renamed Husky trail.
County is giving roads to villages to be managed.
The Hill that is sliding in Elberta will cost $186,000.00 to fix.
Elberta Clerk/Treasurer leaving on August 8th and they have 2 applicants.
Beulah has a EGLE grant, (Environment, Great Lakes and Energy of Michigan) for storm runoff and they want rain drains. EGLE is willing to extend the grant if needed so the work is done correctly.
State Health department investigating a state wide septic system code.
There will be a new RSV vaccine available this fall.
Betsie Valley Trail extension approved through Thompsonville.
Concerns about smoke from Canada.
On September 9th & 10th, 2024, there will be a running event from Mesick to Frankfort with about 600 entrees.
The drain that was washed out on the Betsie Valley Trail will cost $9,000 for the repair. Approved
Correspondence – none
Old Business
Consumer: Energy Franchise Ordinance Agreement Update:
Joyfield was over paid $12,469.00, they are asking Joyfield to refund the overpaid amount. The actual amount was $3,059.00.
New Business:
Second road grinding was approved. The cost will be about $4,000.00, which is within the budget and has been budgeted for, just needs to be scheduled with the county.
AT&T Metro Act of Right Away Permit Extension.
Foster Swift says it is in order resolution #8 to approve permitting to be published in the paper. Resolution #9 approving a 5-year contract as presented.
Public Input :
A citizen asked about if the township would consider an electric vehicle charging station.
Board Members Comments:
A new ballet box was received: it is very secure.
8/3/23 is the day for power washing the building, then painting to come.
Adjournment
Next meeting scheduled September 6, 2023, 7:00pm Joyfield Township Hall
Respectfully submitted by Irene Marcussen
ALL TOWNSHIP POSITIONS WILL BE UP FOR ELECTION NEXT YEAR!!!!
WE NEED Dem-friendly folks to run for office. Interested??? Email us at: [email protected]. We have people that can help and support you through every step of the process!!
We all always looking for SUBS for Lookouts when we are away, to go to the Township meeting and do a write up. If interested, drop us a line at: [email protected]
June 7, 2023 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Monthly Meetings are held on the 1st Wednesday of each month
at 7 pm at the Township Hall
Call to Order today: 7:00 pm
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call Matt, Mark, Trish
Approve Agenda; Approve Consent Agenda Minutes:
One change bill to pay, $4,282 to Michigan Township Park Land Annual Premium for buildings and liability.
Public Input: None
Reports:
Commissioner Sauer & Planning Commission
Statewide septic inspection ordinance going from every 3 yrs to yearly. Where will funding come from? Numbers of employees needed? Should there be different rules for different soil types?
Sutter Road:
Not selling lots, but still want to proceed. New road-no cost to the public. What are the impacts on the neighbors? Mention of a study to check water use and the effect on aquifer levels.
Trail meeting approved Iron Man, discussion of persons at the meeting thought last years management went well.
Beulah is talking about some water issues; they have applied for a grant but have not heard back.
Drainage study for Crystal Lake
The Maples:
Rolling reviews for all clients yearly, paying to train own nurses.
Correspondence – none
Old Business:
Discussion of repairs of the Township Hall, power washing the Hall, shed, pump house and another same building. The concrete walkway is in good shape. The propane tank would be done too. After the power wash, they will obtain a paint bid. There was discussion about the which trees need to be trimmed or taken down. Procedure to approve the work with a bid to be put in the local paper running for 2 weeks deadline ending June 30.
Township Hall water heater replacement and install, proposal to accept Evans bid to fix water heater seconded and approved.
New Business:
Spectrum has provided a proposal to Joyfield Township. $49.99 + $7.99= for a router and phone. $77.97 phone, internet, wireless this would cancel out ATT. Discussion of how the internet would work or be used. Motion to accept the bid and work seconded and approved.
There was a public hearing on 6/8/23 for an application to put 4 cabins on Wallaker Rd. The cabins were approved.
Dodie requested the need for a new printer with a discussion on some different models. Motion to purchase a new printer proposed seconded and approved. An HP Model 479 FBW was chosen.
Wi-fi:
A quote was obtained from Spectrum to install business wi-fi. The quote included a price tag of $49.99 for secured internet, $7.99 for a wireless router and $17.99 for phone per month for a total of $75.97 per month. Quote accepted.
Public Input – none
Adjournment 7:42 pm
Next meeting scheduled July 5th, 2023 at 7:00 pm at the Joyfield Twp. Hall
Respectfully submitted by Paul and Irene Marcussen
ALL TOWNSHIP POSITIONS WILL BE UP FOR ELECTION NEXT YEAR!!!!
WE NEED Dem-friendly folks to run for office. Interested??? Email us at: [email protected]. We have people that can help and support you through every step of the process!!
March 1, 2023, 6:30 PM — Joyfield Township Special Budget Board Meeting
Approved agenda to review budget.
FY 2023-2024 Budget Public Hearing
1. Expenditures increased $10,000.00 to cover the cost of the blight enforcement.
2. Joyfield Township is working with Foster Smith, who is writing letters. Our office has not paid him anything at this time.
3. Budget shows $20,000.00 to the good.
4. Zoning permit fees are higher which should be covered by the interest from the balance in the future.
5. Former Enforcement Officer, Matt, is still doing some of the duties while the township does not have a current Enforcement Officer. Our office has not paid Matt anything yet.
6. The increase in property taxes have increased the budget YTD from $35,000.00 to $37,000.00. A $2,000.00 increase for the budget.
7. At this time, the Roads Dept. and Fire Dept. have not provided their contract quotes for costs.
March 1, 2023 7 pm — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Meeting called to order.
Budget Amendment – none.
Approved consent Agenda: Minutes: Regular Board Meeting February 1, 2023, Treasurer’s report, and Bills to pay.
Public Input – none
Commissioner Sauer & Planning – See Gary Sauer commissioner report at benzieco.net.
1. Broad Band Services:
See Tim Malone organization (grant program) which is to provide broad band services to unserved areas. See Spectrum Website for Spectrum plan.
2. Federal grant money provided for infrastructure, Joyfield township will be trying to receive some of this money.
Old business – no budget changes.
FY 2023/2024 Salary Resolutions Approved.
ALL TOWNSHIP POSITIONS WILL BE UP FOR ELECTION NEXT YEAR.
JOYFIELD TOWNSHIP HAS NO DEMOCRAT REPRESENTATIVE—- IF YOU ARE INTERESTED call 231-325-0008 or CONTACT THE BENZIE DEMS OFFICE AT Address: 9930 Honor Hwy, Beulah, MI 49617
THERE ARE PEOPLE THERE THAT CAN HELP YOU AND SUPPORT YOU THROUGH EVERY STEP OF THE PROCESS.
ALSO IRENE AND I ARE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO REPORT ON MEETINGS OF THE BOARD WHEN WE ARE AWAY. PLEASE CONTACT US AT: 231-383-3868 OR 402-416-4875. THANK YOU.
July/August 2022 — Joyfield Township Board Meetings
July
Cemetery:
Tree roots are appearing in southern driveway. A cedar tree top broke off and is resting on another tree. Jim Evans will look at removing the damaged tree.
New business:
Resolution to Waiver of Penalties for Failure to File Property Transfer Affidavits. Supported and Passed. Res.#2022-7
Resolution for Adoption of Revised Poverty/Hardship Exemption Policy. Supported and Passed. Res.#2022-8
Corrective action plans for the above Resolutions include needing applications, affidavits and fact sheets from the property owner/s.
Old Business:
Still looking to fill the Ordinance Enforcement Officer Position. Matt Emery will continue as Enforcement Officer until someone is found.
King Road Zoning Complaints-(illegal dumping): The Blake property has shown significant progress. Four dumpster loads and tires were hauled out.
Jack Keefe property (Wallaker Rd): Owner is trying to subdivide and sell.
Ken Bonny property: Owner is working on it and will let a township representative come and check out progress.
Giddon property (Cass and King Rds.): Owner has been notified to clean up. More contact is required, as the owner is just moving trash to the back of the property.
Violation letters were sent to all owners.
Commissioners Report(Gary Sauer):
Elberta Life Saving Station large doors are showing wood rot and need to be fixed. School Safety-want to get back to dancing and a real Graduation Ceremony. Fire Dept. needs to know about hazardous material storage at the Smeltzer plant. The Road Commission will put up new signage for trails. Maples needs more staff; (Dietician, nurses). They have more patients. Overall, they had a good month. The septic and water file is online for Joyfield, but only if done with a permit.
August
Public Input
Suggested that the Township have a trash pickup day once per year, as things are left out and never picked up. This could be done by three board members approving a Citizen’s Initiative or a Special Tax Levy. Mark Evans indicated that the Township has no place for storage and no allocation (money), for this. How would liability and handling of the trash be done? Mark also noted that most of our taxes go the the fire department.
Neighbors are concerned about the slow clean up progress at the illegal dumps sites. Mark indicated that the township does not want to go to court yet, but wants to give the owners some more time. Citizens still have concerns about illegal dumping and special variances. Ex. Corey’s Cabins west of Wallaker Rd. on King Rd.(noted that they are limited to 4 cabins, otherwise must seek state approval).
Citizen(Ted Wood) wanted to commend Dodie Putney for her great election organizing, as Joyfield had a 35% increase in voters and she had to scramble for help.
Old Business:
Ordinance Enforcement Officer Position tabled for the time being.
Board Member Comments:
The outside area mercury light needs to be replaced, hopefully with an LED.
Commissioners Report:
A transfer station has been opened and licensed in Thompsonville. The school has been transferred to the Road Commission. Health Dept. is in the process of hiring a Health Officer. Elberta and Frankfort will be voting on dispensaries in November. Spectrum Fiber spoke to the board about where they are going to work. There is a shortage of workers at the Maples. Betsie Valley Trail-Bikers along Crystal Lake should stay on the trail, not on the road(although they are allowed on the road) to avoid bike/car interactions. There was a confrontation between a car driver and a biker. The Iron Man competition was approved for the Betsie Valley Trail, as well as the signage.
Respectfully Submitted from the trenches by Paul and Irene Marcussen
May/June 2022 — Joyfield Township Board Meetings
Consent Agenda approved.
No Public Input
Reports:
Dawn Olney retired as of June 1, 2022.
Health Dept. Strategic Plan Board wants to be in on interviews for new Health Officers. Exit interview with Lisa Peacock.
We received a Tire Grant to collect tires in Frankfort and Thompsonville.
Merit broadband survey was completed and presented to the Benzie County Commissioners. Benzie County has many places where internet is spotty or nonexistent.
Maples-Whole upstairs will be memory care. Plan to write off debt through DHHS and Medicare.
Esch Rd. repaving will be started after July 15 to enable Red Shouldered Hawks to finish nesting. Gary will call Road Commission about potholes on Hoadley and Wallaker Roads.
Reviewed, contacts, with the property owner of the King Road illegal dumping site. Owner said, renter sublets to someone else. Owner is now aware of the problem. Betsy says that something needs to happen here as far as enforcement of zoning codes. Township will give a timeline number of days to respond to the administrator and comply. Owner will be informed of the appeal process. If appeal fails a deadline will be given, then cleanup will begin and fees assessed. Timeline to get done at 8175 King Rd.
There is another illegal dump site on 5498 Cass Rd and one other at 6085 6 mile rd., also up for enforcement. Correspondence sent. Certified letter was refused by one owner. Served on 5/8. Properties will be posted with what is required by ordinance. Board indicated they want compliance, not penalties. Two owners were hostile. Police presence may be needed. Board approved expenses for officers to accompany servers, if letters are ignored.
Public input:
2-4 trucks entering King Rd property everyday, sometimes as late as 2-3 AM.
A concern was brought up about the old oil facility on the SE corner of Wallaker and County Line Rd. Assured that everything is shut down and safe.
Planning Commission meeting to focus on blight.
Respectfully Submitted from the trenches by Paul and Irene Marcussen
STAY CONNECTED: www.benziedemocrats.com/
April 6, 2022 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Approve consent agenda: Minutes for Special Board Meeting March 2nd, Regular Board Meeting March 2nd.
Treasurer’s Report and Bills to Pay
Old business
None
New business
Fire contract was approved for protection at $30,152.
Ordinance Enforcement Officer Position:
Old officer resigned. Discussion about hiring a new officer with law enforcement training. Could contract with an existing officer from another Township who might want extra work. Will put an ad in the paper, possibly an officer from the sheriff’s dept. $500/yr. In the past, we have not needed an officer to do much. Jim will research what our expectations should be.
Election Ballot storage containers were recertified. New voter registration forms are coming.
FYI: Pursuant to Michigan election law, MCL 168.24j, the Board of County Canvassers must complete a countywide ballot container inspection no later than June 1, 2022. All ballot containers owned by the county and the cities and townships located within the county must be included in the inspection. The term “ballot container” is used to mean 1) any containers used to transport and secure ballots and 2) any containers used to secure memory units and test materials, including test ballots and test data. (DeAnne Loll)
Commissioners Report-Gary Sauer:
Attended a conference in Lansing where he went to seminars concerning open meetings, opioid problems, agribusiness, unfunded liabilities for counties (if counties are 60% under they should not be rewarded for bad management).
Benzonia Fire Dept. may not be able to find a contractor for 2 years.
Feds are pushing counties on ARPA funds.
Road Commission Budget issues for road repairs include costs of $2.8 million for Lindy Rd., $2.4 million for Reynolds Rd., $2.4 million for Nostrick Rd.
Masks optional at court now. Health Dept. looks good – new health officer hired.
Betsie Valley Trail grant done-paving from Beulah to Thompsonville-ok’ed 2.5-3 million, applied for a grant from the DNR for 600,000 in order to pay for resurfacing from Thompsonville to Copemish and fix a trestle bridge.
There will be a 2nd meeting to discuss Broadband survey results on 4/26/22 at 9 am. Benzie County Board of Commissioners meetings are held in the Commissioners Room, Government Center, Beulah, Michigan.
Public Input
Several citizens came to register complaints about to junk yards near Kast and King Roads. Specifically, 8339 King Rd. Complainants are noticing accumulations of junk tires, AC units, cars, oil tanks, chemicals. Burning has also been noticed especially of shingles. Truckloads of junk being brought in everyday. A noticeable rise in rats and mice has been observed. Another property at 8800 King Rd is also being used as a junkyard(absentee owners).
Citizens are worried about their Health, Safety and Welfare. Probable EGLE, Health Dept and DNR violations.
Betsy has sent notice to the owner. The process is started(1st stage). Board will follow through.
Your Precinct Delegates have also been apprised of the fact that there is another illegal dump operating somewhere on Smeltzer Rd.. Where we have been told, they are actually burying cars and other things.
Just a thought:
It would be good if other Joyfield citizens came to their Township Board meetings and raised a little you know what about our Township problems. These dumps are highly polluting and can affect all of us. The first thing to come to mind, is probably the danger to our groundwater.. Irene and Paul Marcussen
Respectfully Submitted from the trenches by Paul and Irene Marcussen
March 31 Joyfield Township Planning Commission Special Meeting
Josh Corey petitioner.
Special Land Use permit- Parcel #10-09-023-003-00
This permit will allow the owners of the above parcel to build 4 cabins along King Rd and one other structure. The cabins will measure 20′ X 25′ with a 5″ porch. 1 Maintenance Building will also be built. Approved with restriction that no sign lighting will be allowed.
March 2, 2022 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
Matthew Emery, Mark Evans, Trish Daughtery were present, & Jim Evans excused.
New business:
Joyfield Township Guideline Resolution for Poverty Exemption
Resolution 6 Guideline to follow along with Federal Poverty Guidelines
Road Brining contract for 1st application cost $2,543.55 and 2nd application cost $3,616.90
All above approved
Old business
2022/2023 General Appropriations Act, Salary Resolutions, Appointed positions/ compensation.
After bidding, the 2 year Assessor Contract /Cemetery Maintenance Contract was given to; Signature Service for $13,000.
All above approved.
Public Input:
Rebecca Hubers Emergency Manager and 911 Director, reported on the National Hazards Mitigation Planning and how roads & culverts should be reassessed every five years.
Commissioner Sauer:
Road Commission will pay for the 1st brining application. The Township will pay for the 2nd. This is a new brining mix that should stay on the road longer. It is a 38% brine and carries 2X the cost of the previous material. New brine should build up over several years and will not need to be applied as often. Asphalt has been cheaper than expected.
Thompsonville ambulance service is getting better.
Elberta 5 member board now fully staffed.
Lisa Peacock resigned from the Health Department.
Roads Dept. to expand to old Platte River School.
We do not need a new Juvenile Detention facility, as we have enough beds. The need is for more staffing.
The board also had a special meeting to review the budget tentatively approved at the Feb.2 meeting and allow the public to comment. No public comments.
February 2, 2022 — Joyfield Township Board Meeting
- Reports to the Board:
- Benzie County Commissioner Gary Sauer (Blaine, Joyfield, and Weldon townships) reported that:
- The Betsie Valley District Library has a new DVD available: “Honor Flight: One Last Mission,” a heartwarming documentary about four WWII veterans and a Midwest community coming together to give them the trip of a lifetime. Volunteers race against the clock to fly thousands of veterans to Washington, D.C.to see the memorial constructed for them.
- Commissioner Sauer also says that Nate Loop, the new administrator for The Maples, seems to be a good match.
- Two abandoned roads to close: Scranton & Center Rds.
- Commissioner Sauer attended a Community Land Trust Presentation concerning affordable housing to be owned by individuals and also another concerning Hazardous areas such as dams and flood zones.
- Commissioner Sauer says that School Board had a discussion about metal detectors in the schools — to acquire or not??
- Lake Ann Elementary noticed radio dead spots during their lockdown drill.
- Sauer mentioned the Elberta development controversy over RK Investments’ proposal to build a complex at the west end of Betsie Bay; RK is seeking a building height variance and to see what the public sentiment is. No land has been acquired, yet.
- Sauer says there are two seats open on the Village of Elberta Council.
- He also says that the Benzie-Leelanau District Health Department meetings will be monthly instead of bi-monthly; COVID-19 is still increasing.
- He also says that commissioner seats may go to 4-year terms. Open meetings and quorums required.
- Several millages will expire this year, and they will be on August primary election ballot — may go back to full amounts.
- Lastly, Sauer said that Senate Bill 565 may provide $3 million dollars to the county. (Senate Bill 565 is a bill that includes $2.5 billion dollars in Restricted and Federal funding to address issues related to water, including infrastructure, dams, lead, PFAS, waste water, drinking water, and wetlands).
- Old Business
- Assessors contract approved for two years. The Joyfield Township Board approved an increase of $1,000 a year; compensation will now be $8,419.00.
Updated parcel count stands at 541.
- New Business:
FY2022/2023 Proposed Budget, salary resolutions, and meeting dates will be adopted in March.
Poverty Exemption Resolution approved.
Board of Review Dates will be March 14 from 9am-3pm and March 17 from 3pm-9pm.
Contracted Law Firm, Foster Swift, has asked for an increase in fees from $190/hr to $220/hr. (Normal rate is $550/hr, so quite a discount.) Indicated that they could raise rates 5%/yr.
Township Treasurer compensation will be raised $500/yr from $3,500 to $4,000.
We have been told that two new business projects are in the works. One is for a new storage facility on US-31, and the other is for a group of cabins on Mick Road near Wallaker. We could not get more info, as the Planning Comission meeting was canceled on the January 17.
Notes respectfully submitted by Paul (231-383-3868) and Irene (402-416-4875) Marcussen, your Joyfield Precinct Delegates.