Gladwin Township Board Meeting

 

August 21, 2024

 

Meeting called to order at 6:30 by Supervisor.  All board members were present.   Pledge to the flag.  Motion by Jodie Klamer seconded by John Mella to approve minutes from the July meeting. M/C Treasurer’s report was given and the general account is  $358,588.47 and Members First Credit Union Savings Account $6,138.13 Members First Credit Union CD $37,290.56. Motion by Kristie Simrau seconded by Doug Ritchie to accept and file the treasurer’s report as presented. M/C. The clerk presented the bills to be paid in the amount of $26,061.73.  Motion by John Mella seconded by Doug Ritchie to pay the bills in the amount of $26,061.73.  M/C.

Ron Taylor, Commissioner said there were two candidates, Alan Donaldson and Tom Lennon.

Old Business:  Discussion on the guardrail in front of the hall and parking lot.  John talked to road commission and they would not repair it.  The board said that it needs to stay.  If the posts are rotted, we can replace them.

The clerk had the Cost of Services for the Gladwin Equalization Dept. Motion by Kriste Simrau seconded by John Mella to sign the Cost of Services agreement for option 3, 3a and 3b.  M/C.

Jennifer said they had 3 burials and the staking is completed.

John gave the fireboard report.

Supervisor said the gravel is done on Reigle Road and Weber Road.  They did weigh a couple loads of the gravel. Supervisor asked about the check for Consumers on the street light for M-30 and Wagarville intersection.  Clerk will have the check at next meeting.

Invenergy representatives were present to give a presentation on the Solar Leases and Solar Panel Farms.  Mike Hoadley, State Representative, was also present to answer questions.  There were many questions asked.  One of the questions was how much land had been leased in Gladwin and Butman Township and they said around 1500 acres and 2000 is their target.  The solar company has 7 years for development stage.  Invenergy is working on leasing from Nickless Road to Hockaday and Ridge up to Butman Township.

State Representative, Hoadley, stated that the Clean Energy Management Bill Act states that Michigan will be carbon free by 2040.  He spoke about the counties master plan and that it needs to be updated every 5 years in order to receive grants and loans.  If the township and county decline large solar or wind operations they can go to the state to get authority to go ahead.  The only two electric companies in the state are DTE and Consumers.  They cannot just take your property a property owner has to agree and sign the lease agreement.  He stated if anyone has any further concerns or questions they can contact him anytime. Invenergy passed out business cards and brochures if anyone has any further questions to contact them.  They are happy to answer any questions.

Sheriff Shea was also present for our meeting. 

Supervisor commented on talking to Jaynie Hoerouf regarding eminent domain or adverse possession for solar and she also said no.

The board thanked Invenergy, Representative Hoadley and all of the residents that attended this meeting.  It was a good informational meeting for all.

Motion to adjourn at 8:00 by Kristie Simrau seconded by John Mella. M/C.

Respectfully Submitted

Kristie Simrau, Clerk