Helena Township Board Meeting
November 13, 2025
8751 Helena Road, Alden, Michigan
Meeting Time: 7:00 PM
Meeting Synopsis
The Helena Township Board met on November 13, 2025, with B. Peeples, O. Leffew, C. Rice, and J. Schilling present. B. Bartz was absent.
Fire Chief Fabiano reported 23 calls and provided updates on equipment, staffing, and a retaining wall issue. Sheriff Hoch reported 85 calls along with equipment updates and grant funding.
Committee reports included Parks and Recreation updates, Planning Commission meeting changes, and zoning activity. The meeting concluded with announcements for upcoming community events and appreciation for community support.
The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:35 PM.
Meeting Minutes
Call to Order
Chair B. 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
Absent: B. Bartz
Approval of Agenda
Motion by C. Rice, seconded by J. Schilling. Motion carried.
Conflict of Interest
None declared.
Public Comment
None.
Approval of Prior Minutes
Motion to approve October 9, 2025 meeting minutes carried.
Treasurer Report
Receipts: $42,891.94
Disbursements: $42,200.69
Bank Balance: $735,985.48
Presentation of Bills
October Disbursements: $42,200.69
Fire Chief Report – South Torch Lake Fire & Rescue
23 calls for service in October, including EMS, apartment fire, motor vehicle accident, and brush fire response.
Year-to-date calls increased compared to the previous year.
Equipment updates include new cargo nets for water rescue and certified vehicle inspections.
Retaining wall structural issues identified; repairs planned with safety restrictions in place.
Community meal scheduled for November 26 from 5–7 PM.
Free smoke and carbon monoxide detectors available to residents.
Antrim County Sheriff’s Report
85 calls reported in October, up from the previous year.
Increase partly due to more traffic stops.
New body cameras and vehicles being outfitted with assistance from grant funding.
Township Ambulance Authority Report
All operations reported as running smoothly.
Communications
None.
Committee Reports – Zoning
8 permits issued, 5 field checks, 12 public contacts, 3 meetings, and 1 violation.
Committee Reports – Parks and Recreation
DNR approved the Township Recreation Plan, qualifying the Township for grant funding.
Split rail fence decision pending.
Planning Commission Report
Bylaw revisions completed; meetings will occur every other month.
Next meeting scheduled for February 5, 2026.
Changes expected to reduce costs while maintaining operations.
Roads Report
No report.
Old Business
Tennis Park bathroom auto-lock system completed.
Septic system functioning but requires maintenance.
Flock cameras scheduled for installation.
Coy Mountain signage ordered.
Furniture options under review.
Speed limit signs in permitting stage.
Spencer Creek Bridge project to resume Spring 2026.
New Business
Website update planned to improve ADA compliance and functionality.
License plate reader cameras proposed for Community Center and approved by motion.
Garage door replacement completed after vehicle damage; insurance claim in progress.
Announcements
Christmas event scheduled for November 29 from 3–7 PM.
Refreshments available at the Methodist Church.
Santa appearance at 5:30 PM.
Donations encouraged for local residents.
Acknowledgment of Village Market for turkey donations and community volunteers.
Motion to Pay Bills
Motion carried.
Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 8:11 PM.
Submitted by Oryana Leffew
Helena Township Clerk