WINDSOR CHARTER TOWNSHIP BOARD

REGULAR MEETING

AUGUST 11, 2026 – 7:00 PM

APPROVED

 

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Supervisor Shaw with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Present: Shaw, Barnhart-Smith, Rumsey, Pray, Gardner, and Slucter.   

Absent: Myers

 

Slucter moved, and Barnhart-Smith seconded to approve the agenda as written. The motion carried unanimously.

 

Slucter moved and Pray seconded to approve the consent agenda. The motion carried unanimously.  General Fund consisting of Voucher #36754 through Voucher #36798, totaling $347,119.49, plus digital transfers and payments of $26,289.56, for a Grand Total of $373,409.05. Payroll Report consisting of Voucher #42869 through #42878 and direct deposits #DD7112 through #DD7194, plus digital payments, for a Grand Total of $102,863.27.

 

Reports:

Sheriff’s Report: Deputy Dowen reported 1) 115 calls for service for the Township during July, including 66 traffic stops. 2) The deputy observed an increase in illegal roadside dumping by individuals coming from outside the area. During July, an individual dumped a couch in the Township. The individual was identified, cited, and required to remove the dumped materials. 3) The Sheriff's Department additionally advised of recent cargo and utility trailer thefts in the surrounding area, particularly near Canal Road, Billwood Highway, Lansing Road, and Old Lansing Road. Residents were encouraged to secure trailers and other easily accessible properties, including the use of hitch locks where appropriate.

 

 Planning Commission:  1) The Planning Commission will meet on August 12, 2026, to continue consideration of the Tarrington/Sanctum of One God Special Use Permit.

 

     Sewer Board:  1) It was reported that approximately $160,000 to $180,000 in unexpected repairs occurred during the year so far. Discussion has taken place regarding establishing a committee to review the system's infrastructure with the plant superintendent. The purpose would be to evaluate future repair and replacement needs and determine whether current budget levels are adequate. 2) Regarding the outfall pipe permit that was submitted, it was reported that verbal approval had been received; however, the physical permit had not yet been received.

 

     Emergency Services Department: Chief Miller reported: 1) Year-to-date EMS calls totaled 739, which is 48 fewer than the comparable period. Fire calls totaled 306, an increase of 25. 2) Significant incidents included four mutual-aid responses to structure fires and a rescue involving a steel beam that fell against a tractor, pinning the operator between the tractor and the beam. 3) Emergency Services also responded to an illegal burn, which resulted in civil infractions being issued. 4) Emergency Services participated in the Michigan State Police Safety Day. Activities included fire truck races using hose lines, an ambulance simulator, first-aid activities with "Rescue Randy," and face painting. The event provided an opportunity for children to interact with emergency services personnel.

  

     Assessor/Preston Community Services: None

 

Public Service Department: Kyle Baker, Public Service Director, reported: 1) Three full burials and eleven cremations during the previous month. 2) Due to limited rainfall, less mowing has been required at the cemetery. 3) Staff have been completing monument footings and are now caught up.

     Supervisor’s Report: 1) The Supervisor reported continued work on zoning referrals. 2) She has been working on property issues near Pat's Drive/Lansing Road, including a deteriorated garage with a collapsed roof. She has also met with the Building Department regarding preliminary work on houses in the area that may present safety concerns. 3) The Township is reviewing the next round of information regarding the Consumers Energy site on Billwood Highway and is awaiting an additional information package expected within the following week.

   

     Clerk's Report: The Clerk reported approximately 35–36% voter turnout for the Primary Election held the previous Tuesday. Eaton County's overall voter turnout was approximately 39%.

 

Other Reports & Announcements: None

 

Hear Public Present for Agenda Items: None

 

Unfinished Business: None

 

New Business:

Eaton County Comptroller Ben Dawson presented information regarding the Township’s contracted Sheriff's Deputy, noting a projected increase of approximately $30,000, primarily due to health insurance costs. He explained that the contract is based on actual costs and is reconciled annually and agreed to meet with the Public Safety Committee to review the figures in greater detail. Dawson also provided an update on the County’s proposed animal control program.

 

Hear Public Present on Any Subject: None

 

With no further business, Supervisor Shaw adjourned the meeting at 8:29 p.m.

 

                                                                                    Meredith Barnhart-Smith, Clerk

                                                                                    Windsor Charter Township