Ellsworth, Michigan 49729
Phone: 231-588-7411
Email: office@villageofellsworth.com

September 9, 2024

APPROVED

VILLAGE OF ELLSWORTH COUNCIL MINUTES

REGULAR MEETING

BANKS TOWNSHIP HALL

SEPTEMBER 9. 2024

 

 

Present: Campbell, Dhillon, A. Drenth, Sowers, Spearing, McCallum, Bennett, Potter

 

Absent: M. Drenth

 

Others:  Police Chief Byrd, Jerry Rasmussen, Donna Heeres, Tom Mann, Chris Wallace, Sandra Davies-Webster, Jarris Rubingh, Mike Strange, Carla Kammerer, Chris Randall, Carlin Smith, John Brock, Beth Cooper, Nate Swailes

 

Meeting called to order by Campbell at 7:00pm

 

  1. Motion by Spearing, McCallum to accept the regular minutes of August 12, 2024, as presented. CARRIED 7-0

 

PUBLIC INPUT: Carlin Smith and John Brock from Consumers Power spoke about the low voltage problem in the Village of Ellsworth. They listened to complaints about power surges and appliances breaking because of this. They asked that Consumers is called more to report problems. There is a plan to replace the transformers on Circle Drive.  Looking into bringing lines from Rubingh property to the road.

 

DEPARMENTAL REPORTS: 

 

  1. Police: Police Chief Byrd reported old cars have been moved.  No further issues at this time.

 

  1. DPW: Tex Drenth is working on a report for EGLE testing for lead in the water system.

 

  1. Streets: N/A

 

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

 

  1. DDA: DDA is sponsoring trunk or treat October 31 from 5:00pm – 6:30pm at the Community Park.

 

  1. Planning Commission: Meeting moved to October 10, 2024.

 

  1. Parks and Recreation: Discussed changing 2025 rates for Woodenshoe Park and also increase the park attendants’ weekly rate from $150.00 to $200.00.

 

 

DISCUSSION:

 

  1. The track has been painted and signs posted stating no motorized vehicles allowed. Also discussed adding boulders on the trail.
  2. Paddle Antrim this weekend – September 12, 13 and 14. Campers get one free night if they stay two nights.
  3. Sewer project on hold. Have applied for CWSRF funding.
  4. Received and opened two bids for the police building. Debated size of building needed. A special meeting scheduled for Monday September 16, 2024, at 7:00pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

ACTION ITEMS:

 

  1. Motion by Dhillon, McCallum to approve new rates for the 2025 year for Woodenshoe Campground as follows: Daily $30.00, Weekly $180.00, Monthly $600.00, Five month seasonal $2,750.00.  CARRIED 7-0

 

  1. Motion by Campbell, Sowers to approve replacing the sidewalk in front of the old fire hall which is owned by Ellsworth Farmers Exchange. Owner will be responsible for 50% of the cost.  CARRIED 7-0

 

  1. Motion by Spearing, Dhillon to commit ARPA funds for repairs to well #1. CARRIED 7-0

 

  1. Motion by Sowers, Dhillon to pay the bills. CARRIED 7-0

 

  1. Motion by McCallum, Spearing to adjourn at 8:00pm. CARRIED 7-0

 

 

Marlene Drenth, Village Clerk