The Munising Township Board met last Tuesday, after the Labor Day holiday, for their regularly scheduled monthly meeting at the Township Hall. Several key topics were discussed, reflecting ongoing community concerns and area developments.
Two significant retirement announcements were made before the meeting was brought to order: the longtime fire chief, Anderson, who served for 41 years, and the township receptionist, who has held various roles since 1983. Both were commended for their decades of service.
After calling the meeting to order, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and taking roll call, the Board began with public comments.
A resident expressed concerns about lake activity, particularly the use of jet skis, which are contributing to shoreline erosion and environmental damage. The discussion highlighted the challenges of enforcing lake rules, particularly regarding watercraft, and how local governments might collaborate with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to create effective ordinances. The Township Supervisor emphasized the importance of public education to encourage responsible behavior and discussed the challenges of crafting specific ordinances to address these issues. The residents who voiced their concerns will talk with their waterfront neighbors and hope to resolve the issue amicably.
The meeting also addressed community matters such as culvert maintenance, camera installation, cemetery expansion, and a solar project, detailed in the Supervisor’s report. Minutes from the previous meeting were approved. Various correspondences were reviewed, including a notice from DTE with interest in purchasing a cellular tower.
A notable moment came when The Munising Beacon was introduced as the newspaper of public record for the township, offering a local solution for publishing public notices. The board noted the potential savings compared to using The Mining Journal, which is out of county and costs more.
Zoning and property issues also featured prominently. With an influx of short-term rental applications, the township is considering updated regulations, especially for non-traditional housing such as tiny homes. There was discussion about residents’ concerns regarding the recent City of Munising ban on new short-term rentals. This only affects the City of Munising and does not affect Munising Township. The assessor provided updates on property appraisals and challenges in assessing mobile homes and non-standard residences. Homes on wheels or less than 12 feet wide may be exempted from some oversight, per the assessor, but would still need to follow township building codes.
The meeting concluded with a discussion about road improvements. Voter-approved funds will be used to address township road paving and maintenance in cooperation with the Alger County Road Commission. No updates were given on the Singleton community building, though its condition was noted as poor. A fire report was provided by the Township’s fire chief.
In summary, the meeting underscored the township’s focus on upcoming retirements, environmental management, infrastructure projects, and adapting zoning to modern housing trends.
The next regularly scheduled Munising Township Board meeting will be held at 7:00 PM at the Munising Township Hall.
