Helena Township Board Meeting
May 8, 2025
8751 Helena Road, Alden, Michigan
Meeting Time: 7:00 PM
Meeting Minutes
Call to Order
Meeting called to order by Supervisor Butch Peeples at 7:00 PM.
Pledge of Allegiance
All present participated.
Roll Call
Present: Butch Peeples, Catherine Rice, Jim Schilling, Butch Bartz, Tony Smedra
Absent: None
Conflict of Interest
No conflicts declared.
Approval of Agenda
Motion by B. Bartz, seconded by J. Schilling. Agenda approved.
Approval of Prior Minutes
Motion by J. Schilling, seconded by B. Bartz, to approve April 10, 2025 minutes. Motion carried.
Public Comment
None.
Treasurer Report
Receipts: $136,644.62
Disbursements: $39,858.04
Presentation of Bills: $39,858.04
Approval of Treasurer’s Report
Motion by T. Smedra, seconded by B. Bartz. Treasurer’s report approved.
Fire Chief Report – South Torch Lake Fire & Rescue
Fire Department and TAA have successfully placed a 24/7 staffed ambulance at the Helena Township Fire Building.
New personal protective equipment has replaced expired equipment.
Rapid Task Force (RTF) training is being completed in conjunction with the Sheriff’s Department.
Sheriff’s Report
Increased drug activity has been identified in the county.
A second K-9 dog has been trained and donated.
A recreational and marine deputy will be on the water with monitoring cameras to enhance safety.
Township Ambulance Authority Report
None.
Communications
Cleanup Day confirmed for June 14, 2025 from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Additional information to be posted on the Township website.
Committee Reports
Ongoing septic issue is being addressed within the township.
Coordination underway with the Drain Commissioner regarding Bellaire dam repair options.
Zoning
Increased zoning activity noted as summer approaches.
Parks & Recreation
Bid received to resurface tennis courts; grant funding options being explored.
Native plant project at Depot Park involving Rapids City Elementary students and AuSable Institute.
Additional sidewalk donated for Alden Safe Harbor.
Planning Commission
Ongoing updates to Ordinance 5.02.02 and definitions.
Planning Commission and ZBA completed compliance training on May 1.
Roads
Road improvement expenses approved for tar and chip projects and gravel road repairs.
Motion by C. Rice, seconded by T. Smedra. Approved.
New Business
None.
Old Business
Contact made regarding vacant property on Franklin posing safety concerns; remediation plans underway.
Announcements
None.
Public Comment
None.
Motion to Pay Bills
Motion by T. Smedra, seconded by B. Bartz. Approved.
Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Fay M. VandenBerg
Helena Township Board Recording Secretary