BROADBAND INTERNET: Once again we are still moving forward on this project.  The State Historical Office of Preservation has approved erecting of the tower and we are now waiting for the FAA  to tell us what type of lights we need. Freedom Net is ready to provide the internet service for the Township and we will notify residents as soon as the service is up and running.  If you have any questions or would like to sign up to be contacted for service please do not hesitate to call either my assistant, Michelle Morse or myself at the Township office at 655-3193.  

INGHAM COUNTY ROAD PATROL:  In the last newsletter I wrote to you regarding the elimination of the Ingham County Road Patrol. The rural Townships are joining forces to urge the County Commissioners to keep the road patrol service without increasing taxes.  Treasurer Janet Eyster and I recently attended a County Chapter meeting about the matter. A system was set up to make sure that at least one township representative attends each County Commissioner meeting.  If the road patrol is discussed in any said meeting, an email system has also been established to keep all townships up to date on the issue.  We must let our County Commissioners know how important it is for us to keep this service. Please read the following  article from our County Commissioner Randy Schafer.

Your Voice must be heard
By
Commissioner Randy Schafer

Ingham County has always functioned with the belief that all citizens were important regardless of address.  Lansing has more needs and uses most of the resources in terms of the Health Department, Jail, Prosecutor, Courts, Substance Abuse, Mental Health, etc. and the more rural townships had the occasional patrol car from the Sheriff Department.  Every property owner pays 9.4 mills toward county operations.

During the last budget cycle, the Board majority (13 Democrats, 3 Republicans) decided to eliminate the DARE program as well as the Paramedic Program in the Sheriff Dept.  In addition, it took out fleet replacement and two additional positions.  The Sheriff Department was the “only” department to be targeted specifically for budget reductions.  It was stated that 2009 will be worse for the Sheriff Department. Overall, the county’s budget increased by 5.5% and stands at $191,000,000. Sometimes government officials attack the most basic of services and try to create another revenue stream by this technique.

There is an adopted Policy Statement that essentially says; Sheriff Services will not be provided unless townships contract and pay for the same and to what extent. In other words, law enforcement and essential services must now be an additional tax on top of the 9.4 mills.

The major problem with the situation is that there is little outcry from some of the townships and citizens.  It is very easy to cut if there is no opposition.  I strongly encourage you to write letters to the Lansing State Journal, Ingham Newspaper, and contact the Board of Commissioners at Ingham.Org. As well your local State Representatives and Senators.  Without action from the citizens, the next budget will be a “public safety disaster” and unfair and unnecessary cost to rural residents.

Board Actions

In an effort to keep residents more informed, this area is being dedicated to special interest actions taken by the Township Board. For more details go the website and you will be able to review the current agenda and minutes of the Board meetings.

• Section 27.02  Pond Ordinance.  Increased the size of a pond to 1/2 acre before site plan approval is necessary.

• Board approved the appointment of Martin Wright, Rex LaMore and Wanda Bloomquist to the Planning Commission for an additional 3 year term.

• Approved a poverty exemption resolution.