GROVE TOWNSHIP MONTHLY MEETING
June 11, 2025
The June 11, 2025, meeting was called to order at 5:00pm
Present: Brandie Sherry, Melvin Kehl, Robert Bushor, Jim Howard
Visitors: Elizabeth Stoner, Dale Wood, Diane Ball, Rob and Dave from E&M Engineers & Surveyors
APPROVAL OF May 2025 MINUTES
- Motion made to accept by Robert Bushor and seconded by Jim Howard.
- All in favor, aye, passed
APPROVAL OF May l 2025 TREASURER’S REPORT
- Motion made to accept by Robert Bushor and seconded by Jim Howard
- All in favor, aye, passed
SECRETARY REPORT
We received a thank you letter from Cameron County Ambulance for our donation. Melvin has un upcoming meeting with them to discuss their coverage area.
Diana Ball has scheduled to rent the ballfield on June 29th for her granddaughter’s graduation party.
ROADMASTER REPORT
Melvin and Jim completed the installation of new dusk-to-dawn lighting at the recreation park, including a fixture on the flagpole. Additionally, repairs were made to the hot water heater. Trees that were previously located in the ditches along Jerry Run Road have been removed. Following the mowing of the roadsides, the remaining ditches will be cleared.
Windstream contracted a company to install a new fiber optic line for high-speed internet, and work began on Jerry Run Rd. without obtaining a right-of-way from the Township or knowledge of the roadside conditions. The Supervisors directed the company to stop all work until further information and agreements could be established. Approximately 150 feet of work had been completed along the road edge, impacting the roadside and mixing mud into the roadway surface.
Following Melvin and Jim’s inspection of Three Runs Road, Hardwoods agreed to pay $3,000 for stone to fix potholes that worsened during their bonded period.
Conservation reported that the bid notice for Jericho will be published in the newspaper next week, and the bids will be opened at the subsequent meeting.
BUSINESS
Walker and Walker Equipment quoted $16,500 for the brush cutter swing arm attachment for our skid steer purchased last year.
Jim Howard moved to approve, seconded by Melvin Kehl. Motion passed unanimously.
Walker and Walker Equipment quoted $7,000 for an 83×18 painted steel equipment hauler (14k tandem axle), while Smouse Trailer Sales quoted $8,775 for a 20-foot galvanized HD Lo Pro equipment hauler (14k tandem axle). Jim explained the higher price at Smouse was due to galvanization, which is more durable and requires less maintenance.
Jim Howard moved to purchase the BWise trailer from Smouse; Melvin seconded. The motion passed with Jim and Melvin in favor and Robert Bushor opposed.
Jim noted that a camp on Lick Island has not maintained its lawn, so Brandie will send a letter to address this. Dale Wood also reported that at 174 First Fork Road, an old trailer was moved into the brush and a new one placed; once Brandie identifies the owner, a letter will be sent.
Rob and Dave from E&M Engineers visited to discuss the potential development of a new office and garage, as well as grant opportunities that may assist with funding. Potential sources include CDBG funds through Cliff Clark, USDA grants or loans, HUD programs, and LSA funding.
The proposed facilities consist of a 30×60 office building featuring an 8×8 bathroom, a 12×16 secretary’s office, and a 16×20 meeting room; a 50×75 garage with four bays; and a 30-foot salt storage building with a roof.
Additional features that could strengthen grant applications include the installation of electric vehicle charging stations, designating the premises as an emergency shelter, providing office space for the fire chief and officers, and offering public access to computers.
The engineers also noted that LSA grants support a range of projects, including roads, equipment, buildings, and water or sewer infrastructure. These grants are highly competitive, typically awarded for projects costing less than $250,000, and benefit greatly from substantial backing by local representatives—beyond standard letters of support.
The engineers will use the information we’ve provided to prepare a proposal outlining the fees, with engineering costs eligible for inclusion in the grants.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Diana consulted the Supervisors regarding procedures in the event of rain during the snake hunt and the potential for parking within the fenced area. It was determined that vehicles could continue to be parked there, with Diana expected to assess ground conditions and water levels to make appropriate decisions.
Dale raised questions regarding the purchase of a brush cutter, specifically about its cutting height and frequency of potential use. He noted that the current individual mowing the roads is performing satisfactorily.
He also inquired whether anyone had contacted Windfall Custom Homes in St. Marys to determine if they could construct an office, as this option might be more cost-effective than hiring an engineer. Brandie agreed and added that there are other companies offering prefabricated offices and garages that may present additional affordable alternatives.
Dale further asked for updates on the berm box suggested by Robert Bushor, but Jim reported he had not yet spoken to anyone regarding this matter. Dale also questioned whether crack sealing has been revisited for the current year.
Additionally, Dale asked if Mike Saline was being replaced in his mowing position, as Robert Bushor appears to be handling mowing duties. He suggested it could be more cost-effective for the Township to pay a laborer’s rate rather than a supervisor’s rate for mowing services.
Dale stated that he had spoken with Cliff Clark from Cameron County regarding grants. He mentioned that two options that might support the Township with building funding are the LSA and USDA, which provide grant and loan opportunities.
Elizabeth requested information regarding the mulch and the two individuals who offered to cover its cost. Brandie will conduct additional research on this matter. Elizabeth also suggested that, during the process of cleaning ditches, an inventory should be made of the number of culverts owned by the Township, noting that grants may be available to assist with their repair.
PAY BILLS AS PRESENTED
- Motion made by Robert Bushor and seconded by Melvin Kehl
- All in favor, aye, passed.
ADJOURN MEETING
- Motion to adjourn the June 14, 2025, meeting by Robert Bushor and seconded by Melvin Kehl, at 6:32pm
- All in favor, aye, passed.
Next meeting will be held on July 11 , 2025, Starting at 5:00pm at Grove Township building.
Respectfully Submitted,
Brandie Sherry
Secretary / treasurer Grove Township