MINUTES OCTOBER 2025 (1)

VILLAGE OF ELLSWORTH COUNCIL MINUTES REGULAR MEETING BANKS TOWNSHIP HALL October 13, 2025 Present: J. Rasmussen, S. Sowers, S. Dhillon, M. Drenth, Al Drenth, G. McCallum, L. Spearing, M. Bennett, Marcie Potter. Absent: Others: Tina Sundelius, Carla Kamermer, Lisa Nagy, Gary Strange and Nathan Swailes. Pledge of Allegiance 1. MOTION by S. Dhillon/seconded by L. Spearing to accept the minutes of the September 8, 2025, regular meeting and the October 6, 2025 Special Meeting as presented. CARRIED 7-0 PUBLIC INPUT:  Gary Strange was unclear why proprietors of the Gold Nugget had discussed potential issues with his property with the Village Council and not him. He wanted to be informed. The Zoning Admin stated that no complaints have been made just vague mentions that their drain field may be on his property. Strange produced a survey that showed that no such encroachment existed. He was advised to speak with the neighbor, who had also been advised to speak with him. He then asked if a setback could be imposed on that property. The Zoning Admin will investigate.  Carla Kammerer asked questions on how to transfer property. . DEPARMENTAL REPORTS: a. Recreation: S. Dhillon reported that she spoke with Paddle Antrim Director Deana Jerdee and they have many ideas on how to improve the universal kayak launch site and are willing to help with raising funds. We will apply for a grant to Rotary Charities to fund the cost of updating the Recreation Plan. New Rec Director Lisa Nagy and the director of the Central Lake Little League plan to meet this winter. b. DPW: The DPW Truck is in for repairs. c. Streets: None d. Zoning: None e. President’s Report: J. Rasmussen stated that having Sommer Solutions do this winter’s plowing to save wear and tear on the village front loader is not affordable. They charge $200 per hour. He then presented the possibility of purchasing a used pick up, cost $12,000, in lieu of both the present pick up and front loader being in “iffy” condition. The new builds in Essex Estates do have partial water meters. They need an additional part and to be hooked up by a professional. He will get estimates on the needed parts and work needed. f. Clerk’s Report: None COMMITTEE REPORTS: a. Finance Committee: None b. DDA: L. Spearing reported that Trunk or Treat is almost here. The theme is your favorite children’s book character. A goal setting retreat will take place in November. c. Planning Commission: The Draft Village Master Plan will be reviewed at the December PC Meeting and all input collected over the 63 day public review period will be incorporated. A public hearing will be scheduled and the draft should be at the January Village Council meeting for approval. d. Ordinance/Law Enforcement Committee: None e. Streets/Lights/Water/ Solid Waste Committee: None DISCUSSION: a. VanDellen: S. Dhilllon plans to ask him if he would be willing to create a $50,000 endowment for the maintenance of the new docks. b. Sewer Project: J. Rasmussen’s new contact at EGLE is on vacation but will attend next month’s meeting. c. One of our citizens would like to add a weather vane to the cupola on the Community Square pavilion. Approval by general consent. d. Deputy Clerk computer will cost more than expected. J. Rasmussen will call IT to find out why. ACTION ITEMS: 2. MOTION by L. Spearing/seconded by S. Sowers to set Trick or Treating hours at 5-8pm. CARRIED 7-0. 3. MOTION by L. Spearing/seconded by S. Dhillon to accept the Water Removal Fee Policy for Wooden Shoe Park as amended. CARRIED 7-0. 4. MOTION by M. Bennett /seconded by J. Rasmussen to set a fee of $100.00 per month and require proof of insurance for campers/RV stored at Wooden Shoe Park over the winter. CARRIED 7-0. 5. MOTION by L. Spearing/seconded by M. Bennett to agree to a memorandum of understanding with the Township to create the 2026 Recreation Plan together AND to apply for a grant from Rotary Charities to pay for compiling the plan. CARRIED 7-0. 6. MOTION by S. Sowers/seconded by J. Rasmussen to Amend the Reith Riley bid from $91,666.00 by $1,058 to $92,724. CARRIED 7-0. 7. MOTION by S. Sowers/seconded by M. Bennett to hold the Martin Concrete bid until we have more information and an explanation of expenses. CARRIED 7-0. 8. MOTION by S. Sowers/seconded by J. Rasmussen to Amend Sommer Solutions bid from $14,865.00 by 1,106.45 to $15,971.45. CARRIED 7-0. 9. MOTION by S. Sowers/seconded by J. Rasmussen to pay the bills as presented, holding the Martin Concrete payment until an itemized invoice is received. CARRIED 7-0. PUBLIC INPUT: None ADJOURN: MOTION by S. Sowers/seconded by M. Bennett to adjourn at 7:50. CARRIED 7-0. Marlene Drenth, Village Clerk