During their March meeting, Steve Gradin approached the Clear Lake Twp. Board to present a proposal for installing disc golf at the township park.

Gradin, who lives near the park, said neighbors support the idea and several volunteered to help install it, explaining it would be a good family activity.

The board was not opposed to the idea, as they want the park to be used more often, but they were unsure of where the disc golf baskets could be placed without disrupting the township’s mission to keep the park’s natural habitat. 

A lengthy discussion was held, and a township map referred to as potential locations were looked at. A decision was made to start with three baskets, see how much they get used, and then determine from there if more can or should be installed. Gradin will meet with Supervisor Bud Stimmler and Township Engineer Terrance Vander Eyk after the snow is gone to determine where the first three could be placed.

Road Report 

At 7:15 Eyk opened the single bid, received from Schendzielos, that had been submitted for surface improvements on 71st St. A motion carried approving the bid to remove the blacktop and replace it with four inches of class 2 for $9,500.

Julia Espe approached the board to request three variances so she would be able to build a four-season porch over a portion of her deck; one for a setback from the ROW, one for impervious surface, and one for her septic tank. After a brief discussion, a motion carried to approve all three variances and send positive comment forms to the county.

Outdoor AED

Outdoor AED Specialist Joel Vogel gave the board a presentation on AED Smart Monitored Cabinets and their lifesaving features. AEDs (automated external defibrillators) are used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. The AED Smart Monitored Cabinets are easy-to-use outdoor medical devices that can analyze the heart’s rhythm, and if necessary, deliver an electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm. 

Vogel shared local experiences and informed the board about local groups and cities that are placing the units in their communities. Seeing the obvious benefits, the board expressed interest in purchasing one for outside of the township hall, as the system does require electricity. 

Vogel was directed to order one for Clear Lake Twp., and the board will continue discussions on how the yearly fees will be paid and where additional units could be placed around the township.

Other Business

The board reviewed the site plan for the new township park pavilion. Consensus was that the building and playground locations were fine, however Eyk was asked to come back with a couple of different proposals for the parking lot so it doesn’t conflict with the trail that goes through the area.

Chairman Gary Gray informed the board he had met with neighbors about what they would like to see in the playground, and had obtained eight quotes, which ranged from $20,000 to $25,000. Even with the money that will likely be left over after building the pavilion the township will still be short of funds. Gray will go to the Lions to ask for help in purchasing the equipment.

A motion carried approving the township’s new mailbox ordinance.

The sheriff reported 148 calls for service for February, including 96 traffic stops, one fire, one warrant arrest, and one stolen vehicle recovery. 

The next Clear Lake Twp. meeting will be April 19 at 7 p.m.