The Town of Center meeting on July 14, 2025, covered various community issues and administrative actions. The meeting commenced with standard opening procedures, including the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of minutes.
Key highlights included:
- Officer’s Report: Incidents of illegal dumping on Rock Road and Corners Road, and car break-ins on Macro Road, prompted a reminder to residents about securing valuables and a suggestion to use Ring doorbell footage for investigations.
- Culvert Project: The board decided to amend the culvert pipe size at 12 Corners Road from a 42-inch squash to a 36-inch round to avoid a $2,500 engineering assessment.
- Certified Survey Maps (CSMs): CSMs for four lots on Rock Road and the David Elizabeth Revocable Trust were approved. A CSM for the Holtzpacker Family Trust was tabled due to a landlocked lot requiring a legal easement.
- ATV/UTV Ordinance (Golf Carts): A proposal to allow golf carts on public roads was dismissed due to state law restrictions.
- Ditch and Water Issues: Concerns were raised about water drainage on Biger Road due to a neighbor’s high culvert, leading to a decision to “shoot the road” for elevation determination. Continuous puddles on Metal Lane were discussed, with options for making it a public road or installing drain tile.
- Emergency Sirens: A board member expressed concern about the county discontinuing emergency sirens, citing their importance during power outages. The board plans to invite an emergency management representative to discuss the issue.
- Citizen Involvement: The board addressed concerns about an individual “back-checking” town vendors and emphasized that direct involvement in town business must follow proper channels.
- Robert’s Rules of Procedure: A proposal was made to adopt official rules for public meetings, including a three-minute time limit for public comments directed to the chairman, to improve control and communication.
- Culverts/Stormwater Policy: Discussions began on developing a written policy for addressing and funding culvert and ditch repairs, including the possibility of a stormwater utility and researching policies from other townships.
- Miscellaneous: Dean was approved as the town board representative for the Community Foundation 501c3 Board of Directors. The board also discussed drafting an ordinance for property owners to clear overhanging trees in the town right-of-way. The tax assessment open book is scheduled for July 16th. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM.
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