(Chelsea Update would like to thank Tim Eder for the information in this story.)
Lyndon Township has begun the process of updating its Recreation Plan. A contract for a consulting firm to assist with the process was approved at the May 10 meeting of the Township Board.
Residents interested in serving on the committee that will oversee the process are encouraged to contact Township Supervisor Pam Byrnes with a short letter of interest ([email protected]). The plan should be completed by the end of 2022.
The Township Board heard from representatives of the Department of Natural Resources and Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation about a plan to open new sections of existing trails on state land and in Park Lyndon to mountain biking. The township expressed interest in learning about the plan after hearing concerns from residents. Several citizens were at the meeting to express their disapproval of the plan because of anticipated conflicts between bikers and other users of the trails and impacts on the trails and habitat. Some township officials expressed their displeasure that the agencies hadn’t consulted with the township before approving the plan, which will affect a road and trails used by residents of the township.
A presentation from Washtenaw County about the development of a Climate Action Plan was received. Andrew DeLeeruw from the county discussed the progress to develop a plan to reduce carbon emissions and prepare to adapt to a changing climate. Township Supervisor Byrnes made a point that more frequent storms are already degrading gravel roads and there is no source of funds to repair them.
A report from the latest meeting of the Multi Lakes Sewer Authority indicated that the authority will be receiving a reimbursement of over $500,000 from funds being withheld by Dexter Township. The final payment will be received after the authority completes its audit in June. Reports from the Chelsea Area Fire Authority and Western Washtenaw Recycling Authority were received.
The township approved a budget for expenditure of federal funds provided from the American Rescue Plan Act. The township spent $286,000 to build a redundant fiber optic capable to back up internet service. Broadband committee representative and Deputy Supervisor Gary Munce reported that progress is being made to secure bids for new technology to enable residents to view and participate in meetings on-line from their homes. He also provided updates and usage of the township’s newly-updated website.
The township approved a resolution to discontinue imposing a penalty for delinquent payment of property taxes. The county will still be imposing fines and residents are urged to contact the township if their tax bills will be late.
Official minutes of the May meeting will be approved at the next meeting of the board on June 14 at 7 p.m.
