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TownshipFocus
Michigan MARCH 2021
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MICHIGAN TOWNSHIPS ASSOCIATION
2021 MTA
president
Peter
Kleiman
MTA by the COVID-19 updates: Rural township
numbers In-person meetings, exemplifies
page 3 vaccine strategy and ‘Neighbors Serving
more Neighbors’
page 4 page 15
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C2 MARCH 2021 | township focus
contents TownshipFocus
MARCH 2021
Michigan
ATION
NSHIPS ASSOCI
MICHIGAN TOW
ICATION OF THE
OFFICIAL PUBL
March 2021 | Volume 9, Number 3
2021 MTA
president
Peter
Kleiman
Rural township
COVID-19 updates: exemplifies
MTA by the In-person meetings,
numbers ‘Neighbors Serving
vaccine strategy and Neighbors’
page 3 more
page 4 page 15
Official Publication of
the Michigan Townships
4
Association
mta officers
President
Peter Kleiman, Supervisor
Harris Township
(Menominee Co.)
First Vice President
Bill Deater, Supervisor
Grant Township (St. Clair Co.)
18 Second Vice President
Pauline Bennett, Clerk
Addison Township (Oakland Co.)
featured articles 15
Treasurer
Connie Cargill, Treasurer
Golden Township (Oceana Co.)
Secretary
4
Harold Koviak, Supervisor
Burt Township (Cheboygan Co.)
COVID-19 updates and information for townships Immediate Past President
Continued updates on COVID-19 guidance and information impacting Jeff Sorensen, Supervisor
Cooper Charter Township
townships, including in-person meetings, quarantine guidelines and more. (Kalamazoo Co.)
15 Neighbors serving neighbors:
Rural township exemplifies service to community
past presidents
Ken Gauthier, Supervisor
Sanborn Township (Alpena Co.)
In Hayes Township (Clare Co.), the concept of “Neighbors Serving Doug Mansfield, Supervisor
Union Township
Neighbors”—the theme of MTA’s 2021 virtual conference—is simply (Grand Traverse Co.)
a way of life, including hosting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic site, and
Linda Preston, Supervisor
offering assistance and insights to their neighboring communities in need. Pokagon Township (Cass Co.)
18
Diane Randall, Supervisor
Roscommon Township
Peter Kleiman leads MTA in the ‘ever-changing normal’ (Roscommon Co.)
Following a year of adjustments and creativity—both for MTA and townships, editorial & design
2021 MTA President Peter Kleiman, Harris Township (Menominee Co.) Publisher Neil Sheridan
Editor Jennifer Fiedler
supervisor, reflects on lessons learned, moving forward—and looking back at
Advertising Manager Ashley Maher
the experiences that brought him to the helm of the Association. Printer Foresight Group, Lansing
mission statement
Special insert: All the details and registration info The Michigan Townships Association
advances local democracy by fostering
Neighbors
serving
Neighbors
for MTA’s 2021 Virtual Conference & Expo! township leadership and public policy
Acme Township April 28 & 29
essential for a strong and vibrant
Michigan.
in this issue
3 Daily Democracy 14 Inside Lansing
6 News & Notes 23 Knowledge Center
12 Hello, MTA ... ? 24 Financial Forum township focus | MARCH 2021 1
mta board of directors
Mary Segalin, Ironwood Charter Township (Gogebic Co.), Dist. 1
Jim Nankervis, Ishpeming Township (Marquette Co.), Dist. 2
Peter Kleiman, Harris Township (Menominee Co.), Dist. 3
Marilyn Strickland, Newton Township (Mackinac Co.), Dist. 4 allied service provider index profile
Harold Koviak, Burt Township (Cheboygan Co.), Dist. 5 Michigan Township
Participating Plan
Sharon Schultz, Torch Lake Township (Antrim Co.), Dist. 6 page 8
Ken Lobert, Ossineke Township (Alpena Co.), Dist. 7
Marvin Radtke Jr., Green Lake Township (Grand Traverse Co.), Dist. 8 president’s round table
Steven Ebels, Clam Union Township (Missaukee Co.), Dist. 9
Burnham & Flower Municipal Employees’ Michigan Township
Kimberly Anderson, Whitney Township (Arenac Co.), Dist. 10 Insurance Group Retirement System Participating Plan
Connie Cargill, Golden Township (Oceana Co.), Dist. 11 315 S. Kalamazoo Mall of Michigan 1700 Opdyke Ct.
Yulanda Bellingar, Morton Township (Mecosta Co.), Dist. 12 Kalamazoo, MI 49007 1134 Municipal Way Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Tom Paige, Williams Charter Township (Bay Co.), Dist. 13 (800) 748-0554 Lansing, MI 48917 (248) 371-3137
Lawrence Krohn, Oliver Township (Huron Co.), Dist. 14 www.bfgroup.com (517) 703-9030 theparplan@tmhcc.com
Greg Golembiewski, Blendon Township (Ottawa Co.), Dist. 15 See ad on inside front www.mersofmich.com www.theparplan.com
Kevin Beeson, Pine River Township (Gratiot Co.), Dist. 16 cover. See ad on back cover.
MTA Executive Committee member-at-large
Joanne Boehler, James Township (Saginaw Co.), Dist. 17
Bill Deater, Grant Township (St. Clair Co.), Dist. 18
Bret Padgett, Comstock Charter Township (Kalamazoo Co.), Dist. 19 leadership circle
Patti Jo Schafer, Eagle Township (Clinton Co.), Dist. 20
Pauline Bennett, Addison Township (Oakland Co.), Dist. 21 Asphalt Materials Inc. DTE Energy ITC Holdings Corp. Rosati, Schultz, Joppich
3737 Fisher Rd. One Energy Plaza 27175 Energy Way & Amtsbuechler, PC
Malinda Cole-Crocker, Buchanan Township (Berrien Co.), Dist. 22
Columbus, OH 43228 Detroit, MI 48226 Novi, MI 48377 27555 Executive Dr., Ste. 250
Donald Rogers, Coldwater Township (Branch Co.), Dist. 23
(614) 634-6024 (800) 477-4747 (248) 946-3000 Farmington, MI 48331
Al Boggs, Rome Township (Lenawee Co.), Dist. 24 www.asphalt-materials.com www.dteenergy.com www.itc-holdings.com (248) 489-4100
Diana Lowe, Genoa Charter Township (Livingston Co.), Dist. 25 www.jrsjlaw.com
Bauckham, Sparks, Fahey Schultz Burzych Mika Meyers PLC
To find your MTA District, visit www.michigantownships.org Thall, Seeber & Rhodes PLC 900 Monroe Ave. NW Ted Hartleb Agency,
or call (517) 321-6467. Kaufman, PC 4151 Okemos Rd. Grand Rapids, MI 49503 An EMC Insurance
470 W. Centre Ave, Ste. A Okemos, MI 48864 (616) 632-8000 Company Partner
Portage, MI 49024 (517) 381-0100 www.mikameyers.com 5840 King Hwy.
postal requirements (269) 382-4500 www.fsbrlaw.com See ad on page 22, and Kalamazoo, MI 49048
Michigan Township Focus serves as the medium for the exchange www.michigan in the March issues of (269) 385-5911
of ideas and information for the elected and appointed officials townshiplaw.com Foster, Swift, Collins Township Insights. www.hartlebagency.com
of Michigan townships. The views expressed and the material & Smith, PC
presented by the contributors and advertisers are not to be Consumers Energy 313 S. Washington Sq.
construed as having the endorsement of the officers, board 2400 Weiss St. Lansing, MI 48933-2193
of directors, staff or membership of the Michigan Townships Saginaw, MI 48602 (517) 371-8100
Association nor represent the views or positions of said parties (989) 791-5608 www.fosterswift.com
unless specifically so stated. www.consumers
energy.com
Michigan Township Focus, Issue 3 March 2021 (ISSN 2330-
9652), is published monthly, except for one combined spring
issue. MTA membership provides a subscription to township
board members, the manager/superintendent, planning
commission chairperson and township attorney. Member
counties also receive subscriptions for elected officials, the
equalization director and road commission chairperson. Annual
keystone club
membership dues include $33 for a one-year subscription to Carlisle Wortman David Chapman Agency Hennessey Engineers, Inc. Nickel & Saph, Inc.
Michigan Township Focus. Additional member subscriptions are Associates, Inc. 5700 W. Mt. Hope Hwy. 13500 Reeck Rd. Insurance Agency
available for $33 per year. Subscription rate for residents and 117 N. First St. Ste. 70 Lansing, MI 48917 Southgate, MI 48915 44 Macomb Place
firms in member townships is $44 per year (schools and libraries Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (517) 321-4600 (734) 759-1600 Mount Clemens, MI 48043
may subscribe for $33 a year). (734) 662-2200 www.davidchapman www.hengineers.com (586) 463-4573
Michigan Township Focus is a publication of the Michigan www.cwaplan.com agency.com www.nickelsaph.com
Townships Association, 512 Westshire Dr., Lansing, MI 48917-9757. See ad on page 10. Michigan Municipal
Phone: (517) 321-6467; fax: (517) 321-8908; Web: www.michigan Emergent Health Risk Management Wade Trim
townships.org. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, MI. CSA Software Solutions Partners Authority 25251 Northline Rd.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Michigan Township Focus, 1800 Club Manor Dr., Ste. 3 1200 State Circle 14001 Merriman Rd. Taylor, MI 48180
P.O. Box 80078, Lansing, MI 48908-0078. Maumelle, Arkansas Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Livonia, MI 48154 (734) 947-9700
72113-7420 (734) 477-6783 (734) 513-0318 www.wadetrim.com
Direct all display and classified advertising inquiries to Ashley (501) 801-9900 www.emergenthealth.org www.mmrma.org See ad on page 12.
Maher at (517) 321-6467. Member rate for a classified ad in either www.csasoftware
the magazine or on the MTA website on a monthly basis is $1 solutions.com Gourdie-Fraser, Inc. Miller Canfield
per word. Call MTA for non-member rates. Deadlines for display See ad on page 9. 123 W. Front St., Ste. A 150 W. Jefferson Ave.,
and classified ads in the magazine are five weeks preceding the Traverse City, MI 49684 Ste. 2500
publication date. Send ads to: PO Box 80078, Lansing, MI 48908- (231) 946-5874 Detroit, MI 48226
0078; phone: (517) 321-6467, ext. 254; fax: (517) 321-8908; or www.gfa.tc (313) 963-6420
email: ashley@michigantownships.org. www.millercanfield.com Participation in the Allied Service
See ad on page 11. Provider program does not constitute
Michigan Township Focus, © 2021 or imply MTA’s endorsement of the
Michigan Townships Association, all rights reserved. company or its products/services.
2 MARCH 2021 | township focus
daily democracy Neil Sheridan, MTA Executive Director
MTA by the numbers
O
ur townships cover 96% of Michigan, and more than Last year was filled with uncertainty—98% of townships
half of the state’s residents call our townships home. contacted our Member Information Services professionals
There are 1,240 townships and nearly every one of for the assistance and knowledge needed to deal with it.
them is an MTA member—we are hopeful that the last More than 52,000 read our magazine or enewsletters, and
few will be able to rejoin us. In Washington, D.C., MTA visited our website to get literally up-to-the-minute news
joins with another 10,000 townships and towns to engage on the pandemic’s impacts as well as the ongoing challenges
on federal matters through the national association we co- to township leadership. Thousands helped their peers in our
founded. MTA Community Connection forums.
You number 6,500 elected officials and you stand with Our state legislature is a busy place. In the recently
an estimated 100,000 township colleagues—deputies, concluded two-year session, more than 3,800 bills were
introduced with more than 30% affecting townships in some
staff, appointees and volunteers—all involved in serving
way. Our Government Relations team was 95% successful
our communities. We have about 25% turnover every four
in mitigating or stopping legislation that was adverse to the
years among our elected officials, including trustees and
interests of our members.
deputies moving to the statutory roles. Many others join as
Some additional important MTA numbers this month are
newcomers to elected office. More than half of Michigan’s 2019 and 2021, and 15. In this issue, MTA Past President
new officials who were elected in November participated in Jeff Sorensen—who assumed leadership of the Association
our recent workshops for them. (If you missed it, you can in 2019 not knowing that he would continue in the role for
take the recorded program anytime online.) About 70% of an additional year, leading us through unprecedented times
townships participated in other “live” MTA training this and challenges—reflects on his unique two-year presidency.
year while others took thousands of recorded workshop We also profile 2021 MTA President Peter Kleiman, who
sessions. Thousands of township participants now have access shares his thoughts on lessons learned—both his own, and for
through their affordable MTA Online subscriptions—if your the Association and townships—over the past year. And, as
township doesn’t have one, you can start it at any time. of the time of publication, Michigan had vaccinated 15% of
This year, more than 2,500 board of review members, the state’s population age 16 and older from COVID-19. We
alternates, assessors and officials took part in our Board of share important updates on the state’s pandemic order, vaccine
Review Training, which included a “Basics” class that was strategy and MTA’s—and townships’—role in helping to
approved by the State Tax Commission to meet the new ensure accurate, trusted information on the vaccine is available.
training requirement for board of review members. The rest Finally, we have our greatest impact by working together.
can take it next year to be in compliance with the mandate, One “AA” battery can’t even power our newly indispensable
which under Public Act 660 of 2018, requires board of TV remotes. But properly aligned and neatly organized,
review members to take training once per term, beginning many working simultaneously can now power semi-trucks.
with the current term of office. For many, it was their first Our Association channels all of your energy and capacity for
virtual learning experience. We are grateful to them, their movement into one powerful force for Michigan. Thank you
supervisors, assessors, clerks and others who helped get them for counting among our numbers.
registered, set up and logged in. As with everything else in
the COVID period, it sure was not easy, and we are proud
our members met this challenge head on. Another big thank
you to your MTA staff, who worked diligently to answer
hundreds of tech support and registration help calls.
township focus | MARCH 2021 3
COVID-19 update
COVID-19 updates and information
for townships
Revised epidemic order prohibits in-person an exception for boards of review, or to extend the virtual
meeting allowance past March 30 had been announced as of
public meetings through March 29 Township Focus press time. Please refer to MTA’s website,
A revised Michigan Department of Health and Human Community Connection, social media and emails for updated
Services (MDHHS) “Gatherings and Face Mask” Pandemic guidance, if available.
Order that went into effect on Feb. 8 extended the As a reminder, “virtual” does NOT mean that everyone
prohibition on in-person township, and all public, meetings must participate via a computer. Most virtual platforms
through March 29, 2021. The revised order, which allowed allow people to phone in, including using a landline phone
school contact sports to resume, continued to prohibit indoor or cell phone. MTA has updated our township facilities
non-residential gatherings to no more than 10 people from and meetings fact sheet to reflect the new order, and we
no more than two households. Outdoor meetings can be also have resources for holding virtual meetings on
held, with gathering restrictions. Other types of indoor www.michigantownships.org/coronavirus.asp. You can
gatherings or activities may be allowed under the order as find additional MDHHS pandemic order resources on
long as persons comply with the safeguards in the order, our webpage as well.
including wearing masks. However, MTA notes because the If in-person meetings become lawful, MTA believes that
Open Meetings Act (OMA) prohibits turning a person away townships must use both virtual and in-person methods, as
from a meeting of a public body, indoor public meetings the township would need to provide access to the meetings
do pose a different situation. Even though a township can for people who might not realize that the meetings are being
refuse entry to its hall or other facility if a person seeks to held in-person. MTA’s sample March BOR meeting notice
enter without wearing a mask or following other required addresses both options. The township can recommend that
safeguards, the township does not have that ability when a individuals submit requests and information in writing, as
person seeks to enter a meeting of a public body. some may not be comfortable using the remote software you
As a result of the order, the March board of review are hosting the meeting with.
meetings MUST be held virtually or outdoors. In
addition, Public 254 of 2020 allows townships, and all local CDC: Fully vaccinated individuals do not
governments, to meet using virtual options for any reason
through March 30, 2021. Beginning March 31, 2021, need to quarantine following exposure
through Dec. 31, 2021, remote participation is allowed only According to revised COVID-19 quarantine guidelines from
for military duty, a medical condition, or a statewide or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fully
local state of emergency or state of disaster. No legislation, vaccinated individuals, which could include township first
revised pandemic order or updated guidance to allow for responders and other officials or personnel, do not need to
4 MARCH 2021 | township focus
quarantine following exposure to a suspected or confirmed • Residents may also contact additional vaccination sites
case of the coronavirus. The CDC noted that individuals as they start to come online, such as local pharmacies
should only skip quarantine after an exposure if it has been like Meijer and others.
14 days since their second dose, and they should continue to • Simply by calling 2-1-1 from any cell phone or landline,
self-monitor for symptoms. residents can get directed to vaccination clinics. This
Remember, however, that guidance is subject to change as builds upon the existing partnership between MDHHS
numerous COVID-19 variants are present in Michigan and and 2-1-1 for assisting residents with connecting
other parts of the country, and additional testing and research to local testing sites. 2-1-1 is a free, confidential
is done on the vaccine’s efficacy on the new strains. service that connects them to local community-based
Townships may wish to update their COVID-19 organizations across the state.
preparedness and response plans to include the updated Townships can also post a link from their website to
quarantine guidance. Updated sample plans are available on www.michigan.gov/COVIDvaccine, which has the most
www.michigantownships.org. up-to-date information about vaccine eligibility, safety
information and clinic locations.
State releases vaccine strategy,
expanded access to vaccine information
Jenn Fiedler appointed to governor’s
At the end of January, the state released its COVID-19
Vaccine Prioritization Strategy, which outlines efforts to get Protect Michigan Commission
70% of Michiganders age 16 and older vaccinated as quickly MTA Communications Director
as possible. The strategy’s guiding principles include that Jenn Fiedler has been appointed by
all Michiganders have equitable access to vaccines, and that Gov. Whitmer to the newly created
vaccine planning and distribution are inclusive and actively Protect Michigan Commission, a
engage state and local government, and public and private year-long appointment to help raise
partners. The strategy includes a social vulnerability index awareness about the effectiveness and
for targeting distribution of supplies by geography within a safety of the COVID-19 vaccine and be
phase of vaccination. The state, as of press time, remained at an avenue to provide accurate, trusted
Phase 1B of the vaccination distribution plan. Several phases vaccine information. The bipartisan
Fiedler
may be happening simultaneously. commission is co-chaired by Lt. Gov. Garlin
Michigan ranked in the top 10 in the nation for vaccines Gilchrist, Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joniegh Khaldun,
administered, and with nearly 1.9 million shots in arms—or among others, and includes members from a wide array of
15% of Michigan’s population age 16 and older—as of press entities and organizations representing local governments,
time. The state has a goal to administer 50,000 shots per day, health care, advocacy, workforce, economic development
which it has hit on several occasions, and aims to become a and more.
daily occurrence once sufficient supply of the vaccine becomes “I am very proud to represent MTA on the Protect Michigan
available. Commission,” said Fiedler, who also serves on a Local
Government Workgroup within the commission. “It will
Easier access to vaccine information benefit our members—and their residents—to have access
We know that navigating the websites and information to first-hand information from state leaders on the vaccine
for vaccination appointments can be frustrating for your distribution and priorities, and to provide the township/
eligible residents, and likely for township officials as well! In local government perspective. Townships can also serve as
addition to a lack of sufficient doses to vaccinate every person trusted sources for vaccine information for their residents and
in a phase, not everyone who qualifies for a COVID-19 business community, and the resources and updates from the
vaccine—including those age 65 and over who are currently commission can be further shared by our members to their
eligible—has access to the internet, or is able to navigate communities.”
the technology many use to make vaccine appointments. The commission serves in an advisory capacity to the
Let your residents know the various paths for appointment governor and Michigan Department of Health and Human
sign-up that are available to them. Services. Members are tasked with providing public
• Residents can call the COVID-19 Hotline at leadership to elevate and reinforce the importance of an
888-535-6136, which is available Monday through approved COVID-19 vaccine, identifying barriers that may
Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. impede the acceptance of an approved COVID-19 vaccine
• Local health departments and hospitals have created by Michigan residents, and develop an outreach action plan
sign-ups, interest forms and wait lists, based on eligibility designed to overcome these barriers. The commission must
per the vaccine prioritization guidance, and will contact complete its work and submit a brief final report to the
residents to schedule appointments as supply allows. governor by Dec. 31, 2021.
township focus | MARCH 2021 5
a compendium of noteworthy items
TOP HONORS FINANCIAL STRESS
Township community named state’s Report: State’s local government funding
‘No. 1 Small Town to Raise a Family’ system has ‘decimated local budgets’
Meridian Charter Township Michigan’s system of funding
(Ingham Co.) is once again in for local governments has
the national spotlight after its “long incubated financial
community of Okemos was stress among its localities,”
named by Newsweek magazine as according to an independent
the “No. 1 Small Town to Raise study outlining the challenges
a Family in Michigan.” and state funding for
Using 2020 data from Niche, municipalities.
which ranks places based on a Towards Fiscally Healthy
variety of factors including Michigan Local Governments,
public schools, jobs and from the Massachusetts-based
cost of living, Newsweek nonprofit foundation Lincoln
took a look at what makes Institute of Land Policy,
these small towns so special found Michigan has some of
and why people live there. the tightest property tax limits in the country and that this
Only communities with a unusual design has contributed to large declines in property
population under 40,000 tax revenue both during and after the Great Recession.
were considered. “Though not the state’s intention, limits on local
“The prime community of Meridian is grateful for this governments’ ability to raise revenues, coupled with reduced
recognition of what our residents know, Meridian Charter state aid, have decimated local budgets,” the report said.
Township—with its award-winning schools, friendly It further noted that most states have only one or maybe
neighborhoods, beautiful parks and natural areas, and two forms of property tax limits, while Michigan has three.
convenient businesses—is the number one choice of families, Three studies comparing the restrictiveness of states property
young professionals and senior citizens,” said Supervisor tax limits have ranked Michigan either second- or sixth-
Ron Styka. most restrictive. The institute also found that while many
The community had previously earned other high other states cut aid to local governments during and after the
rankings from Niche, including No. 1 for best places to live Great Recession, Michigan’s cuts were considerably larger
in Michigan and No. 1 for best suburbs to live in the state. than those in most other states. The report identified four
Last year, its area schools were also ranked in the top 100 issues in local government financing for the state to address:
Michigan schools, according U.S. News and World Report. state revenue sharing, property tax limits, other revenue
Township Assistant Manager Derek Perry also received the sources, and local government fragmentation. Among the
“Best of the Best—Top Assistant Manager” Award from the recommendations made is that the Legislature resolve
Michigan Municipal Executives earlier this year. conflicts between the Headlee Amendment and Proposal A,
“It’s an honor to represent Meridian Township,” Perry and to create a special fund to protect revenue sharing.
said. “I am fortunate to be surrounded in the organization Noted the report, “State officials must remember that local
by so many excellent public servants. The award is truly a governments provide the services and infrastructure on which
reflection of all of our efforts to make Meridian prime.” residents and businesses rely; implementing policies that
Coming in at No. 2 and No. 3 on Niche’s list of “Best make it easier for local governments to do their job ultimately
Small Towns to Raise a Family” were Lodi Township benefits the state of Michigan as a whole and the people and
(Washtenaw Co.) and Bloomfield Charter Township businesses that comprise it.”
(Oakland Co.), respectively. Northville Charter Township
(Wayne Co.) came in at No. 10.
Tell us your township’s story! We love telling your township’s news, accolades,
Retirement
initiatives and programs! You’re proud of your township, and we are, too. Let us Janice Thelen, Watertown Charter Township (Clinton Co.),
help you tell your story. Email your story ideas, happenings in your townships,
treasurer for 23 years.
pictures, etc. to jenn@michigantownships.org.
6 MARCH 2021 | township focus
LOCAL UPDATES FROM ACROSS MICHIGAN
Township happenings
Congratulations to two member-township officials who
have been appointed or elected to serve on statewide and
national boards impacting local governments. Clinton Charter
Township (Macomb Co.) Supervisor Bob Cannon has
been elected to serve as the next president of the National Experience the Difference
Association of Regional Councils, which advocates for regional
cooperation to address community planning and development
opportunities and issues. Hersey Township (Osceola Co.)
Medical First Responder Abigail Watkins, who is also
Newaygo County director of emergency services, has been
appointed by Gov. Whitmer to serve on the Michigan Citizen
Community Emergency Response Coordinating Council.
The council’s mission is to support and enhance Michigan’s
Local Government ERP
homeland security, community health, public safety and all- Financial Management
hazard preparedness with responsible leadership and planning, Community Development
and to reduce, prevent and prepare for emergencies or disasters. Public Works
Vermontville Township Library Personnel Management
(Eaton Co.) received a grant from the
University of Michigan for “GO” bags,
designed to enhance reading levels
for children. The bags, which can be
checked out for 30 days, contain books, Scholarship
reading games and worksheets, and are Sponsor
geared toward kindergartners, and first, Get started today at (855) BSA-SOFT | www.bsasoftware.com
second and third grade students.
Email YOUR Township Happenings to jenn@michigantownships.org. Add MTA
to your newsletter mailing list! Mail to MTA, Attn. Jenn Fiedler, PO Box 80078,
Lansing, MI 48908-0078, or email to jenn@michigantownships.org.
classifieds
HELP WANTED
Public works department head—Clyde Township (St. Clair Co.)
is a community of 5,580 residents with a water district of
788 households. The township is looking to fill the position
of head of its department of public works. A Michigan Class 3
water license is a minimum requirement to oversee the water
district. Other duties include cemetery sexton, grounds and
parks maintenance. Applicant must pass a physical and drug
test, and possess a valid driver’s license. This is a union
position in the International Union of Operating Engineers,
Local No, 324-AFL-CIO. Wages will be based on union
contract. If interested, contact Supervisor Ernie Manoleas for
more information at (810) 985-7258 or email at erniem@
clydetownshipscc.org. We’ve got plans to cover all of yours.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network offers the
Assessor—Bedford Charter Township (Monroe Co.) is seeking complete insurance solution to protect the overall health and well-being
of your employees.
a Michigan advanced assessing officer (level III) lead assessor For more information, contact the Michigan Township Association
or a firm providing assessing services. For more information, at 800-653-2483
visit www.bedfordmi.org. GROUP HEALTH PLANS | SPECIALTY BENEFITS | BCBSM.COM/EMPLOYERS
DOWNLOAD OUR MOBILE APP
Want to place a classified in Township Focus or on www.michigantownships.org? MICHIGAN
Visit www.michigantownships.org/classifieds.asp for more information, email Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
R075027
ashley@michigantownships.org, or call (517) 321-6467.
R075027_MichTownshipAssocFocusAd_8.5x11.indd 1 11/28/17 11:08 AM
township focus | MARCH 2021 7
MTA mourns the passing of John West,
our longest-living past president
MTA’s longest-living past president,
profile
Life Member John West, passed away
earlier this year after a short battle with
COVID-19. West served as the 13th
president of the Association, in 1965.
He was 99. Michigan Township Participating Plan
Advertorial
West was born on the family farm,
Lawndale Farm, and lived on the Public officials serving public officials
138-year-old centennial farm for Founded in 1985 under Public Act 138,
his entire life. As was noted in his the Michigan Township Participating Plan
obituary, he spent his entire life (Par Plan) provides affordable property and
farming, both dairy and crops, and casualty insurance and related services to
dedicated to public service. For a Michigan townships and public entities.
number of years, he was a volunteer
firefighter for Lennon and Swartz Experience the difference
Creek fire departments, and he The Par Plan is unique in that it is governed by Michigan
served as an elected official for West township public officials who make up the member-elected
Lennon Township (Genesee Co.) board of directors. Membership in the Par Plan means
for more than 25 years. having a voice about how municipal coverage is handled,
“My father embodied the wonderful characteristics of service quality and the future well-being of public entities.
public servants: honest, respectful, hard-working, loyal and Par Plan membership benefits include:
dedicated,” said daughter Judy West-Wing, who said that • Comprehensive property and casualty insurance
her father attended MTA’s annual Board holiday gathering coverages, including cyber coverage
until 2019. “He also enjoyed reading the magazine every
• Risk-reduction grant opportunities
month and kept track that he was the oldest past president
still alive.” • Scholarships for Citizen Planning and Zoning
After his service to his township, West went on to serve Administration courses through Michigan State University
on the Genesee County Board of Commissioners, including • Extensive risk control services and resources provided
as chair. He was later the county’s first purchasing agent, by a dedicated team of public sector professionals
a position from which he retired in 1986. He continued to • Access to HR MUNI—human resources compliance
serve his community on various boards and commissions, and services provided online (24/7) and by phone
was a life member of Flushing and Swartz Creek Historical • Annual dividend program
Societies, a 73-year member of the Flint Rapids Chapter “Recognizing the individual and unique needs of every
116 Royal Masons of Michigan and a board member of the member is the cornerstone of the Par Plan program,” said
Michigan Centennial Farm Association, among many others. Jennifer Venema, program administrator. “We are proud to
“Our MTA members have lost a living bridge to our partner with MTA as an Allied Service Provider and support
history,” said MTA Executive Director Neil Sheridan. Michigan communities through customized coverages and
“John’s own desire to live out his life on the heritage farm risk control support, local representation and personal
of his birth shows that he had a strong sense of our place in service.”
time and our connections to what came before and what will The Par Plan is insured by an A++ rated insurance
follow us. As the 13th president of MTA, John was a direct carrier and administered by Tokio Marine HCC—Public
contributor to our success in growing out the organization Risk Group in Auburn Hills, Mich.
and building its impact in Lansing and Washington, D.C. For more information about the Par Plan, visit
for our 1,240 Michigan townships.” www.theparplan.com or call (248) 371-3100.
West and wife Dorothy enjoyed traveling and visited all
50 states. He is survived by four daughters, a daughter-in- Opinions expressed within do not represent the views of MTA, its Board
or members. Participation in the Allied Service Provider program does not
law, 11 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, nieces and constitute or imply MTA’s endorsement of the company or its products/services.
nephews. For more information, see the Par Plan’s ad on the back cover, turn to the Allied
Service Provider Index on page 2 or visit www.michigantownships.org/asp.asp.
8 MARCH 2021 | township focusMTA’s Robinson Scholarship available MTA’s Now You Know lunchtime
to students in your township learning series, held from noon to
When 2020 Robert R. Robinson Memorial 1 p.m. monthly (or more!), covers
Scholarship recipient Tyler Watt received timely topics and allows you to
the award from MTA, he said that get your questions answered—
he looked forward to a career in local all in just one hour!
government because, “the success of the
community is closely tied to the work done
by its officials, both elected and hired.
Local governments are an asset to the Upcoming topics include*:
improvement of their communities at a March 3: FOIA: What's all the Fuss About?
level greater than any state or federal level
involvement could ever approach.” You can April 7: OMA is Here to Stay
help encourage today’s students, like Tyler, May 12: Understanding Planning
to become tomorrow’s local leaders! Urge students in your June 2: Taking Township Minutes
community to apply for MTA’s Robinson Scholarship by
*schedule subject to change
Monday, May 31, 2021.
The scholarship is a one-time award determined on a
competitive basis by the applicant’s academic achievement,
community involvement and commitment to a career in local
government administration. Applicants must be a junior,
senior or graduate student enrolled in a Michigan college
or university and pursuing a career in local government Learn more at https://bit.ly/NYKmta. Now available FREE to
administration. The following materials are required to apply: MTA Online subscribers at the Premium Level!
1) a letter of recommendation from a professor or instructor,
2) a copy of a resolution of support from a Michigan Our thanks to series sponsor
township board, and 3) a short essay on an important issue
facing local government.
Application materials must be submitted to: Michigan
The
Townships Association, PO Box 80078, Lansing, MI 48908-
0078 or emailed to anthony@michigantownships.org.
Help spread awareness of the scholarship by posting
details on your township website or Facebook page, or in your
newsletters! You can link to www.michigantownships.org/
scholarship.asp. Need more information? Call (517) 321-6467,
ext. 229, or email jenn@michigantownships.org.
Right
TGA scholarship deadline extended to April 15
The deadline to apply for a scholarship for MTA’s Township
Reports.
Governance Academy has been extended to April 15. Whether
you’re already enrolled or it’s something you or your fellow
board members are considering, these scholarships can assist
Right Now.
with costs for this comprehensive credentialing program.
A limited number of scholarships, up to $1,000 each, To get your
FREE
are available to assist elected officials from MTA-member CenterPoint
®
townships that may not be in a financial position to provide Fund Accounting
and Payroll Software
the funding necessary for completion of the program. Our
guide visit:
thanks to scholarship sponsors BS&A Software, Burnham
& Flower Insurance Group, Foresight Group and ITC www.csasoftwaresolutions.com/fundaccounting
Holdings Corp. for funding the scholarship program.
Download the scholarship application at www.michigan Distributed By
townships.org (click on “Township Governance Academy”
under the “Training” tab on the members-only section, and
select the “Apply for a TGA scholarship” link), or call
(517) 321-6467, ext. 227, to have an application sent to you. www.csasoftwaresolutions.com • 800.264.4465
township focus | MARCH 2021 9Dates and deadlines
for townships
MARCH 12 Within 10 business
APRIL of Eligible Manufacturing
Personal Property Defined in
1 On or before the first
Monday in March. The 2020
days after the last day of
February, at least 90% of the
total tax collections on hand
1 District or intermediate
school district must reach
MCL 211.9(m) and 211.9(n)
and other parcel information
required by the state
assessment roll shall be must be delivered by the agreement for summer tax Department of Treasury in a
completed and certified by the treasurer to the county and collection with township if form and manner required by
assessor. (MCL 211.24) school district treasurer. there is a summer school levy. the department no later than
(MCL 211.43(3)(b)) (MCL 380.1613(2)) April 1 of each year. (MCL
Last day for treasurers to 211.9m and 9n)
By 20
collect 2020 property taxes. Not later than April 1, treasur-
(MCL 211.78a) Clerks ers make final adjustment and Separate tax limitations
shall electronically transmit or delivery of the total amount of voted after April 1 of any
tax collections on hand. (MCL year are not effective until
County treasurer commences mail (as requested) an absent
211.43(3)(c)) the subsequent year. (MCL
settlement with local unit voter ballot for May 4 election
211.205i(2))
treasurers. (MCL 211.55) to each absent uniformed
services or overseas voter who Assessors are required to
annually provide a copy Last day to pay all forfeited
Local units to turn over 2020 applied for an absent voter 2018 delinquent property
of Form 5278 Eligible
delinquent taxes to the county ballot 45 days or more before taxes, interest, penalties and
Manufacturing Personal
treasurer. (MCL 211.78a(2)) the election. (MCL 168.759a) fees, unless an extension
Property Tax Exemption
On March 1 in each year, Claim, Personal Property has been granted by the
taxes levied in the immediately Absent voter ballots for May 4 circuit court. If unpaid, title
Statement, and Report of
preceding year that remain election must be available to properties foreclosed for
Fair Market Value of Qualified
unpaid shall be returned as for issuance to voters. (MCL 2017 real property taxes
New and Previously Existing
delinquent for collection. 168.714) vests solely in the foreclosing
Personal Property (Combined
Document), and Form 5277 governmental unit. (MCL
2 Tuesday after the
25 through April 13.
Precinct inspectors for May 4
Affidavit to Rescind Exemption 211.78k)
first Monday in March. The
election appointed by local
assessor/supervisor shall
election commission.
submit the 2020 certified
(MCL 168.674)
assessment roll to the board of
review. (MCL 211.29(1))
By 31
63
Tuesday after the first Monday Deadline
in March. Organizational for townships to report
meeting of township board of any errors identified in the
review. (MCL 211.29) 2020 personal property tax
reimbursements on Form
5654 Correction of Millage
8 The board of review
must meet on the second
Rate or Other Errors for the
2020 Personal Property Tax
Michigan communities have a
22-person planning department.
Reimbursement Calculations
Monday in March. This to the state Department of You can, too.
meeting must start not earlier Treasury. (MCL 123.1358(4))
than 9 a.m. and not later than “They’re always available to provide
3 p.m. The board of review Deadline for townships to advice on most planning or zoning
must meet one additional day report any modifications to
during this week and shall issues and their advice is based on
the 2013, 2014 or 2015
hold at least three hours of its 35 years of experience in numerous
commercial personal property
required sessions during the communities throughout Michigan.”
and industrial personal
week of the second Monday
property taxable values on R. Brent Savidant, planning director, City of Troy
in March after 6 p.m. (MCL
211.30) Note: The township Form 5658 Modification
board may authorize an of 2013, 2014 and 2015
alternative starting date for Personal Property Taxable
the second meeting of the Values Used for the 2020
March board of review, which Personal Property Tax Carlisle | Wortman
can be either the Tuesday Reimbursement Calculations A S S O C I A T E S, I N C.
or Wednesday following the to the state Department of
second Monday in March. Treasury. (MCL 123.1345(e), CWAPLAN.COM 734.662.2200
(MCL 211.30(2)) (o), (z))
10 MARCH 2021 | township focus5 On or before the first
Monday in April, the board
7 The supervisor or
assessor shall deliver the
19 On or before
the third Monday in April.
By 27 Notice
of May 4 election published.
of review must complete its completed assessment Allocation board meets and One notice required. (MCL
review of protests of assessed roll, with board of review receives budgets. (MCL 168.653a)
value, taxable value, property certification, to the county 211.210)
27
classification or denial by equalization director not
assessor of continuation of later than the 10th day after Last day to register in any Petitions to place
qualified agricultural property adjournment of the board manner other than in-person proposals on Aug. 3 ballot
exemption. (MCL 211.30a) of review or the Wednesday with the local clerk for May 4 filed with county and local
following the first Monday in election. (MCL 168.497) clerks. (MCL 168.646a)
By 5
April, whichever date occurs
20
first. (MCL 211.30(7))
By 29
Notice of
voter registration for May 4 through May 4 at Public
election published. One notice An assessor shall file Form 8 p.m. In-person registration
606 (L-4021) Assessment accuracy test for May 4
required. (MCL 168.498) for May 4 election with clerk election must be conducted.
Roll Changes Worksheet with proof of residency. (MCL
with the county equalization (R 168.778) Notice of test
Clerk shall post and enter into 168.497) must be published at least
Qualified Voter File (QVF) the department, and Form
607 (L-4022) Report of 48 hours before test. (MCL
23
hours the clerk’s office will 168.798)
be open on the Saturday or Assessment Roll Changes
and Classification (signed by Write-in candidates
Sunday or both immediately
30
the assessor) with the county file for May 4 election
before May 4 election to declaration of intent forms
issue and receive absent voter equalization department Electors may obtain
and the STC, immediately by 4 p.m. (MCL 168.737a) an absent voter ballot via first-
ballots. (MCL 168.761b)
following adjournment of the class mail for May 4 election
By 24
Clerk shall post and enter board of review. until 5 p.m. (MCL 168.759)
into QVF any additional County
locations and hours the clerk Form 4626 Assessing Officers clerks delivers remainder of Electors may submit a written
will be available to issue and Report of Taxable Values as of ballots and election supplies request to spoil their absent
receive absent voter ballots, if State Equalization due to the for May 4 election to township voter ballot and receive a
applicable. (MCL 168.761b) county. clerks. (MCL 168.714) new ballot by mail for May 4
election until 5 p.m. (MCL
168.765b)
township focus | MARCH 2021 11hello, MTA ... ? Catherine Kaufman, MTA Legal Counsel
Bauckham, Sparks, Thall, Seeber
& Kaufman, PC
How do we know if medical If our board has not adopted
marijuana primary caregivers an ordinance to opt out
in our township are licensed? of adult-use marijuana
Do they need to obtain building establishments, will the MRA
permits? issue licenses in our township?
The 2008 Michigan Medical Marihuana Act (MMMA) Possibly. The MRTMA authorizes a municipality to adopt
allows qualifying patients to grow marijuana for their own an ordinance to do one of two things: completely prohibit
medical use or to designate a primary caregiver (through adult-use marijuana establishments in the municipality
registration) to grow for them. So, the MMMA has allowed OR limit the number of adult-use establishments in the
primary caregivers since 2008. municipality. If the township does nothing, the MRA has
Michigan court decisions over the last several years have the authority to issue adult-use licenses in the municipality.
clarified how and where primary caregivers can grow medical
marijuana. Most importantly, in April 2020, the Michigan Isn’t the state limited for the
Supreme Court held that primary caregivers are subject
to municipal zoning regulations that are not unreasonable first two years to issuing adult-
or inconsistent with state law. (DeRuiter v Township of use licenses to people who
Byron, 505 Mich 130 (2020)) Now, any primary caregivers
establishing in your township can be required to obtain already hold medical marijuana
zoning approval, along with all required building permits. licenses? Our township doesn’t allow
The Michigan State Police will assist the township in
regards to primary caregiver MMMA compliance. The
medical marijuana facilities, so aren’t
Marijuana Regulatory Agency (MRA) does not enforce we protected from the state licensing
regarding primary caregivers. adult-use establishments in our
township until sometime later in 2021?
Our township has not opted in
No. The initial limitation on issuing of adult-use licenses to
for medical marijuana facilities those already holding medical marijuana licenses only applied
under the Medical Marihuana to certain adult-use establishments. It did not apply to adult-
use Class A grows or microbusinesses; either of these types of
Facilities Licensing Act licenses could be licensed anytime after MRA started issuing
(MMFLA) and has opted out of adult- licenses (December 2019).
use marijuana establishments under the Now, given the need for supply to meet demand in the
adult-use market, the MRA is loosening this restriction. As
Michigan Regulation and Taxation of of March 1, 2021, there is no longer a requirement to have
Marihuana Act (MRTMA). Can primary a medical marijuana facility license first in order to obtain
caregivers still set up in our township?
Yes. The opt-in limitation for medical marijuana and opt-out
requirement for adult-use marijuana do not apply to or limit
primary caregivers under the MMMA. Primary caregivers
can establish in any municipality, subject to the municipal
zoning, building or other regulations.
A township should review its zoning ordinance to
determine where primary caregivers may establish and by
what approval process. Primary caregivers are lawful and
ENGINEERING STRONGER COMMUNITIES
cannot be excluded from any municipality, but are required to
conduct their activities in compliance with the MMMA, and
local laws and regulations. 800.482.2864
www.wadetrim.com
12 MARCH 2021 | township focusan adult-use license for a Class B grower, Class C grower, The MRTMA also includes a referendum provision,
marijuana retailer, marijuana processor or marijuana secure through which members of the public can circulate petitions
transporter. Therefore, any township intending to prohibit to force an election on one of the two options: adopt an
all adult-use marijuana establishments should adopt an ordinance completely prohibiting adult-use establishments
ordinance to completely prohibit adult-use establishments OR limiting the number of adult-use establishments. The
and file a copy of the adopted ordinance with the MRA. act creates this specific referendum authority in a township.
While cities and villages may have charter provisions
allowing referendums on other issues, the MRTMA’s
Our township has a few referendum authority is somewhat unique for townships. The
medical marijuana facilities township needs to be aware that petitions may be circulated
to force one of the two above options to voters.
by ordinance. When will we The MRTMA only requires petitions signed by 5% of the
see money from the medical registered voters who voted in the last gubernatorial election.
For small municipalities, this number—in some cases—can
marijuana excise fund? be easily met. If such petition is submitted to your township,
The medical marijuana excise fund was repealed with consult your township attorney to determine how to validate
the adoption of the MRTMA. If your township has signatures, approve the petition form, approve proposed
medical marijuana facilities, you may continue to charge ordinance language and, if appropriate, submit proposed
your township’s annual license fee (up to $5,000 for ballot language to the county clerk for placement on a ballot.
administrative, enforcement and inspections costs), but you Townships should also keep in mind that the township
will not receive any additional funds from the state. clerk runs elections for villages. Therefore, if adult-use
referendum petitions are circulated for a village election, the
township clerk will have a role to play.
Our township board allowed Hello, MTA ... ? provides general information on typical questions asked by
medical marijuana facilities, township officials. Readers are encouraged to contact an attorney when
specific legal guidance is needed. Member township officials and personnel
but has adopted an opt- may contact MTA Member Information Services with questions or requests
out ordinance for adult-use from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., weekdays, at (517) 321-6467 or fax (517) 321-8908.
establishments. Can anything change
this decision? The township is being
told by industry advocates that we must
2,407 YEARS
allow adult-use establishments if we
allow medical marijuana facilities.
OF COMBINED
There are a lot of dynamics in play between the medical
marijuana market and the adult-use marijuana market. In
the most basic sense, there is a huge demand for adult-use
EXPERIENCE.
marijuana; the regulated, licensed supply is having trouble
keeping up with that demand. As the adult-use market
demand increases, medical marijuana facilities may be forced
to elevate to participate in the adult-use market or may be
driven out of business. (This is a simplistic analysis; there are
WE GET GOV.
many more factors at play.)
It is likely, given the new March 1 timeline for the state’s
licensure of all types of adult-use facilities, that more industry
pressure will now be directed to municipalities to encourage
opening to the adult-use market. A township board can,
at any time, adopt an ordinance to completely prohibit
or to limit the number of adult-use establishments in the
municipality. This is usually a police power ordinance, with
accompanying zoning ordinance amendments to identify
district locations and approval processes. (As previously noted,
if a township does not adopt an opt-out ordinance, adult-use
establishments may be licensed in the township by the MRA).
A township may also repeal an opt-out ordinance.
township focus | MARCH 2021 13inside Lansing Legislative and political updates—and
the impact on local government
Address Confidentiality Program protects Legislative lowdown
addresses from FOIA A quick look at critical bills that MTA is following as they
A new program known as the Address Confidentiality move through the legislative process. For a complete list,
Program (ACP), enacted in late December, will exempt head to MTA’s “Legislative Action Center” on the members
participants’ addresses from Freedom of Information Act side of www.michigantownships.org, or look to our weekly and
(FOIA) requests—including a participant’s location in the monthly e-newsletters sent to all MTA member officials.
state’s Qualified Voter File system. The program was enacted HB 4014: Speed limits—Modifies procedure for
to strengthen protections for survivors of domestic abuse and establishing speed limits. MTA supports.
sexual assault, reduce the risk of individuals being threatened HB 4084: Unlawful dumping—Revises criminal penalties
or harmed again by their abusers, and prevent their address and civil fines for unlawful dumping of garbage. MTA supports.
from being subject to FOIA. HB 4123: Water supply—Modifies use of clean water
The ACP, to be administered by the state Department assistance and safe drinking water assistance funds for energy
of the Attorney General, will protect victims of domestic efficiency water works projects. MTA supports.
violence, stalking and human trafficking under the bipartisan- HB 4129: Elections—Requires secretary of state to post on
passed plan, and will allow victims of crimes and their Department of State website list of local clerks who are not
children to apply for identification numbers and substitute current with continuing education training. MTA monitoring.
addresses. Victims will be able to obtain a confidential
HBs 4132-4133: Elections—Creates felony penalties for
address for official documents, such as driver’s licenses and
knowingly submitting an absentee voter (AV) ballot application
mail correspondence, to help protect them from their past
using another person’s name and personal information and
offenders. for submitting an AV ballot application with the intent of
Participants would receive a unique identification obtaining multiple AV ballots for a person. MTA monitoring.
number and new state ID cards with a state post office box,
HB 4134: Elections—Allows increase in allowable precinct
so participants’ residential addresses are not listed. The
size and requires permanent absent voter list. MTA supports.
Michigan Department of Technology, Management and
Budget would receive their mail, which would be forwarded HB 4125: Elections—Requires absent voter counting
to them. Participants can request a governmental entity use boards in cities and townships with more than one election
the designated address, shielding their physical address from precinct. MTA monitoring.
public record requests. SB 17: Public employees and officers—Modifies population
The Department of State, a law enforcement agency or a thresholds for contracts of public servants serving as public
local government can request the attorney general to provide safety officers. MTA supports.
the confidential address, telephone number or email address SBs 22 & 23: Elections—Limits millage elections to
if it requires access for a legitimate government purpose. This November elections. MTA opposes.
can only occur if the governmental agency was unsuccessful in SB 46: Broadband personal property exemption—Creates a
contacting the person using the designated address. personal property tax exemption for new broadband equipment
The attorney general’s office has started working toward that resolves lack of broadband service. MTA opposes.
the creation of an online system that survivors of crime can SB 61: Shoreline permits—Provides for expedited permit
use to keep their personal information secure. While the law processing during high water. MTA supports.
provides the attorney general two years to implement the
system after an appropriation is made by the Legislature, the
office is beginning to meet with stakeholders from across state
government to establish an online system for survivors. The
law also requires the attorney general to establish an address
confidentiality program advisory council, which includes
a representative of a local unit of government. Updates
throughout the development will be provided online at the
Attorney General’s Crime Victim Rights webpage, available
from www.michigan.gov/ag.
Michigan joins 37 other states that provide address
confidentiality programs for crime victims.
MTA will update members with additional information
once the system is developed.
14 MARCH 2021 | township focusYou can also read
