Board of Trustees Approves Sewer Rate Increase

Here is a summary of the York Township Board of Trustees meeting from July 12.

Board Approves Sewer Rate Increase

The board voted 7-0 to increase the sewer rate for the first time in two years to $3.96 per unit, up $0.41.  The increase will only affect the Toyota Technical Center, as it is the only user currently on the system. This rate increase will cover an increase by the service provider and build a backup fund for when repairs and replacement. Supervisor Joseph Zurawski also said that the water rate will likely rise, too, but said the increase was to be minimal, so did he not seek to raise water rates yet.

Foreclosed Property to be Pursued for Nature Preserve

The board voted 7-0 to pursue interest in purchasing 7.2 acres of landlocked property northeast of the Willis and Crane roads intersection. The board hopes to create a nature preserve and park for York Township. The property would cost $1,500, and the board hoped the expense would not exceed $3,000. The board has not officially agreed to purchase the land; the vote was to inform the Washtenaw County Treasurer that York Township is interested in purchasing. The township is also studying the cost of maintaining the property.The board expects to vote on the purchase in August.

Board Offers Assessor Position to Coucke

The Board of Trustees accepted the Township Personnel Committee’s nomination and offered Christopher Coucke the Assessor’s position.  The board had a brief discussion as to whether the position was to be held as an employee or as a contractor, but statutes require the position to be held by an employee. The decision was unanimous with all members voting.

Board Brought Up to Date on Workers’ Compensation Insurance and Act 7

Supervisor Zurawski brought the rest of the board up to date on the matter of Workers’ Compensation Insurance. Townships around the state are attempting to save money by coming together to self-insure themselves. The self-imposed deadline to get the ball rolling was missed, so all monies collected was refunded to the various townships and the group will attempt to get the group fund going next year. Until then, York Township will remain with its current provider. Michigan law requires all employees to be insured by their employers.

Zurawski also brought the board up to date on Act 7, the proposal to introduce a county-wide transit plan to Washtenaw County. He had heard no new news in regards to the upcoming meeting and will keep everyone informed when he does.

Zoning Board of Appeals In Need of Capable Replacement

Supervisor Zurawski informed the board that Fred Schettenhelm’s appointment is coming to an end and Schettenelm feels it is time to end his time on the board. Zurawski approached two other individuals that were disinclined to join, and the board is looking for capable members. The chairman asked for input from his counterparts on the board for recommendations. Anyone interested in the vacancy in encouraged to talk to the supervisor, who can be reached during business hours at (734) 439-8842.

SEMCOG Membership Renewed

The board voted unanimously to renew membership to SEMCOG (Southeast Michigan Council of Governments) for the next year at a cost of $1,166. Board member Jane Kartje said that the organization was quite helpful and that SEMCOG was used for ideas and other items frequently.