Helena Township Board Meeting
October 9, 2025
8751 Helena Road, Alden, Michigan
Meeting Time: 7:00 PM
Meeting Synopsis
The Helena Township Board met on October 9, 2025, with all members present.
Fire Chief Paul Fabiano reported 200 calls year to date for South Torch Lake Fire & Rescue, up from 179 in 2024, and noted ongoing structural inspections at the fire station. Sheriff Kevin Hoch shared department updates, including staffing changes and increased drug enforcement efforts.
The Board approved the purchase of a Flock security camera. Mike Robinson of the Township Ambulance Authority reported that four ambulances were in service and one replacement was pending.
Guest speaker Leslie Meyers provided updates on county dam projects and funding efforts. Danielle Lynch shared 2026 event plans and a proposed Farmers Market schedule change, while Marilyn Barber Ciszewski reported on Veterans Memorial progress and future ADA improvements.
Committee reports covered zoning permits, Parks and Recreation grant applications, Planning Commission ordinance updates, and upcoming road projects. A banking resolution, technology upgrades, and election preparation were also approved.
The meeting adjourned at 9:45 PM.
Meeting Minutes
Call to Order
Chair Butch Peeples called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
All present participated.
Roll Call
Present: B. Peeples, O. Leffew, C. Rice, J. Schilling, B. Bartz
Absent: None
Conflict of Interest
No conflicts declared.
Public Comment
M. McCracken commended Marilyn Barber Ciszewski on the Veterans Memorial.
Approval of Agenda
Motion by J. Schilling, seconded by B. Bartz, to approve the agenda as presented. Motion passed.
Approval of Prior Minutes
Motion by B. Bartz, seconded by J. Schilling, to approve the September 11, 2025 minutes with correction to the Treasurer’s report for receipts and balance as of the end of September. Motion passed.
Treasurer Report
Receipts: $6,896.10
Disbursements: $57,509.82
Bank Balance: $735,294.23
Presentation of Bills
September Disbursements: $54,280.34
October to date: $15,269.18
Approval of Treasurer’s Report and Bills
Motion by B. Bartz, seconded by O. Leffew, to approve the Treasurer’s Report and bills as presented. Motion passed.
Fire Chief Report – South Torch Lake Fire & Rescue
Chief Paul Fabiano reported 200 calls year to date in 2025 compared with 179 total in 2024. Inspectors and engineers are investigating structural issues with the fire station building. The Community Dinner was announced for October 29 at 5:00 PM at the Fire Department, and Trunk and Treat was announced for October 18 at the Methodist Church from 12:00 noon to 2:00 PM.
Antrim County Sheriff’s Report
Sheriff Kevin Hoch reported that department personnel shifts continue to improve public service coverage and that illicit drug enforcement efforts are ongoing. A bulletin regarding the Antrim County Public Safety Center was distributed.
Motion to Purchase Flock Camera
Motion for Helena Township to purchase a Flock camera for $3,000 was made by B. Bartz and seconded by J. Schilling. Roll call vote: Bartz – Yes, Schilling – Yes, Peeples – Yes, Rice – Yes, Leffew – Yes. Motion passed.
Township Ambulance Authority Report
Mike Robinson reported that four ambulances are currently in service. The fifth unit was sold to a firm in New Jersey, and a replacement is being sought.
Guest Speaker
Leslie Meyers provided updates on ongoing and future dam project timelines and funding. Questions may be directed to meyersl@antrimcountymi.gov.
Communications
Danielle Lynch provided updates on special events in 2026 and proposed moving the Farmers Market from Thursdays to Mondays. Marilyn Barber Ciszewski updated the board on the Veterans Memorial project, noting the need for ADA-compliant sidewalks and future landscaping. She will explore ADA grant options.
Committee Reports – Zoning
Bob Logee presented the September 2025 zoning activities, including 3 land use permits.
Committee Reports – Parks and Recreation
Gordy Schafer reported on Ball Park Phase 1 progress and funding. Phase 1 completion would include the beach area. Two grants were identified: $125,000 in 2025 and $100,000 in 2026. A request was made for a $60,000 township contribution. The Board will review the budget and revisit the matter in November 2025.
Planning Commission Report
Jim Gurr reported on Commission approval of updated Ordinance 5.02.01 language on private waterfront access for vacant property. Motion made by J. Schilling, seconded by C. Rice. Roll call vote: Bartz – Yes, Schilling – Yes, Peeples – Yes, Rice – Yes, Leffew – Yes. Motion passed.
Roads Report
Butch Bartz reported that some 2025 road projects have moved to Spring 2026.
New Business
New Coy Mountain signage has been ordered. Township office upgrades are underway, including new technology and development of Standard Operating Procedures. A Township website update is planned for winter with additional community event links. The Clerk is preparing for the November 4, 2025 election. Replacement of the conference room table and chairs is under review.
Resolution #10092025
Resolution to remove Anthony Smedra from all Helena Township bank accounts. The General Fund will include Oryana Leffew, Clerk, Catherine Rice, Treasurer, and Ernest Rice on the account only. Motion by J. Schilling, seconded by O. Leffew. Roll call vote: Bartz – Yes, Schilling – Yes, Peeples – Yes, Rice – Yes, Leffew – Yes. Resolution passed unanimously.
Old Business
Three speed limit sign installations are pending Antrim County permit approval. Spencer Creek bridge completion is expected in Spring 2026. A hazard tree was removed from Alden Cemetery.
Announcements
Chair Peeples announced the Honor Flight return from Washington, DC on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 8:30 PM at Traverse City Airport. The public was encouraged to attend and welcome the veterans home.
Motion to Pay Bills
Motion by J. Schilling, seconded by B. Bartz, to pay all bills as presented. Motion passed.
Adjournment
Meeting was adjourned at 9:45 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Oryana Leffew – Helena Township Clerk