LEGISLATIVE AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE

MEETING MINUTES

April 11^th, 2008

A regular meeting of the Chippewa County Board of Commissioners’ Legislative and Natural Resources Committee was held on Friday April 11^th, 2008 at the Chippewa County Courthouse in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Chairperson Richard Timmer called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. with a quorum present.

MEMBERS PRESENT: Richard Timmer, Chairman, Scott Shackleton and Earl Kay

MEMBERS ABSENT: None

OTHERS PRESENT: Jim German, Treasurer Marilyn McDonald, by telephone Melissa Milton-Pung

Additions/Deletions to the Agenda

Chairman Timmer called for additions or deletions to the agenda. It was moved by Commissioner Kay, seconded by Commissioner Shackleton to approve the agenda as presented. On a voice vote, the motion carried.

Public Comments

There were no public comments.

Historical District Ordinance

The Committee reviewed a proposed Historical District Ordinance. The ordinance would be the first step in Chippewa County becoming a certified local government under the State of Michigan Guidelines for grant dollars from the State Historical Preservation Office. The ordinance along with a historical district commission are the key steps to the County applying for restoration and planning grants from SHPO. Grant dollars are a pass through from the Federal Government. Although the amount of funds are limited, it was decided they may help in planning and restoration of the Chippewa County Court House if they might be obtained.

It was moved by Commissioner Shackleton, supported by Commissioner Kay, to recommend to the County Commission that the ordinance be approved. On a voice vote, the motion CARRIED.

Land Bank

A discussion was held on the County establishing a Land Bank under the guidelines of HB 4483. It was decided that further research should be done as to how it would benefit the County.

Administrator German was directed to coordinate a meeting with MAC representatives to discuss the situation further.

Drainage Problems at Edge of the Woods

The committee reviewed correspondence form the Law office of Andary and Andary in reference to a Drain District being created. The issue goes back to 1996. With increased rezoning issues and economic development in the area it was decided that a meeting with the committee and City Officials should be held

to look at a number of issues in the creation of a Drain District.

Update on ATV/ORV resolution

The committee discussed a request from Representative Joel Sheltrown of the 103^rd district for a resolution

In support of House Bill 4323. The bill, supported by MAC would create uniform standards of operation, safety requirements, and protections for property owners.

It was moved by Commissioner Shackleton, supported by Commissioner Kay, to recommend to the County Commission that the proposed resolution be endorsed. On a voice vote, the motion CARRIED.

Informational Items

A number of informational items were discussed. Including:

a. MDEQ Air Quality Pending Permit to install Applications

b. A request to the prosecutor for clarification on County Policy in regards to the building code.

c. Amendments to Jail Overcrowding Emergency Powers Act.

d. Comprehensive Land Use Plan for Kinross Township.

e. A Letter from the Iron County Board of Commissioner on nuisance species.

Committee and/or Chairman Comments

Chairman Timmer gave a RCD meeting overview for land clean up. Commissioner Timmer also noted that the May 16^th U.P. Commissioner meeting would be in Brimley. He also long term soil conservation goals.

Adjourn

Commissioner Kay, supported by Commissioner Shackelton, moved to adjourn the meeting. On a voice vote the motion CARRIED.

Chairman Timmer declared the meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m.

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Jim German, Administrator

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Richard Timmer, Chairman