Summer in Cannon Township
A WONDERFUL TIME TO ENJOY OUR RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
With summer in full swing, I hope everyone is taking advantage of the wonderful recreational opportunities that Cannon Township offers. Since the Pickleball Courts opened in October, they’ve been buzzing with activity whenever the nets are up. A big thank you to the many volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy to enhance everyone’s experience at the courts.
We are excited to announce the formation of the “Cannon Pickleball Ambassadors” committee. These volunteers serve as ambassadors of the sport and the courts. They assist and encourage new players, keep the courts clean and organized, and ensure everyone follows the rules. This committee is also suggesting several improvements, including extended summer hours, a lost and found box, windsocks and screens to manage the wind, and a challenge court for competitive play. If you see a member of the Committee, please thank them for their dedication. Also, remember that when the courts are full, warm-up time is limited to 5 minutes, and court time is capped at two games to 11 (win by 1) before players must rotate out to give others a chance to play.
Next, the Cannon Township Parks and Recreation Committee is working to restart the Kies section of the trail. This section is crucial for connecting the Village of Cannonsburg to Rockford and the White Pine Trail creating a safe route for all. The project hit a snag years ago due to an easement issue, but we’re back on track with a new engineering and design study. The State of Michigan has approved a $300,000 grant for this project, which is still available. Our current plan is to run the trail from the north end of the trail at Hickory Court west on Kies, then north along the east side of Meadow Ridge Elementary School, and back west along the north side of the school property to Courtland. Once we receive recommendations from the engineering company, we will meet with affected landowners and hold a public comment meeting. Our goal is to break ground on this project in 2026.
The Grand River Greenway trail is also progressing nicely. Groundbreaking is set for the spring of 2025 to connect the White Pine Trail to the Cannonsburg Ski Area and the Ada trail system, aiming for completion
by mid-2026. The trail will run east from the White Pine Trail along Rogue River Road/7 Mile Road, tunnel under Wolverine Boulevard, and continue on to Brewer Avenue, then south on Brewer Avenue to Cannonsburg Road, and east to the Cannonsburg Ski Area. From there, it will head south on Pettis Avenue to Knapp Street to connect with the Ada Trail System. Final plans have not been published yet and may be subject to change. For more information on this trail, please visit www.grandrivergreenway.org.
Cannon Township has applied for a grant to extend a section from the Village of Cannonsburg to the Cannonsburg Ski Area along Cannonsburg Road, linking the Cannon Trail to the Grand River Greenway trail. This project is in the preliminary stages and when the time is right and we have a layout to present, we will meet with neighbors immediately affected by the trail and hold public meetings once the layout is established. We hope to hear by early 2025 if we are awarded the grant. If we are awarded the grant, we will start the engineering process at that time to establish how the trail will be laid out. If this project moves forward, it will not start before 2027 but more realistically sometime in 2028.
We hope you’re noticing improvements to the existing trails. The Township has hired a contractor to rebuild railings, clear debris, trim trees, and repair boardwalks. There’s still more work to do, but we’re grateful for the help in maintaining these assets for the community.
In closing, I’d love to hear from you about your experiences with the recreational opportunities in the Township. Share what makes you happy and what activities you enjoy. Also, feel free to suggest future projects. Together, we can make our community even better.
Wishing you a life well lived in Cannon Township!
Todd Olson Trustee
Youth, Summer Lingo, Bingo
YOUTH, SUMMER LINGO, BINGO
Get BINGO Card
Download your BINGO card from the Cannon Township website.
Do Activities
Pick the activities you and your family want to do together to get five in a row.
Get Your Prize
Turn in your BINGO card to the Cannon Township Fire Department on Belding Road for an ice cream voucher to Cowlicks and a
Cannon Township’s Planning Commissioners are:
Jeff Twyman Chair
Ben Masterson Secretary
Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon Board Representative
Lorrie Haney
Peter Prina
Terry Brod
Mary Heffernan
Understanding the Role of the Planning Commission
The Planning Commission in Cannon Township plays a vital role in shaping the future of our community. As a key advisory body, the Planning Commission is responsible for guiding the Township’s growth and development, ensuring that it aligns with the community’s needs and values.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION:
1. Developing and Updating the Master Plan:
One of the primary responsibilities of the Planning Commission is to develop and regularly update the Township’s Master Plan. This comprehensive document outlines the long-term vision for land use, housing, transportation, parks, and public services. By setting clear goals and policies, the Master Plan helps ensure that development is orderly and sustainable.
Fun fact: A Master Plan is a guide, not the law.
2. Reviewing and Approving Development Proposals:
The Planning Commission reviews and approves various development proposals including site plans, subdivision plats, and special land use permits. This process involves evaluating whether proposed projects comply with zoning ordinances, land use policies, and community standards. By carefully reviewing these proposals, the Planning Commission helps maintain the character and quality of the Township.
3. Recommending Zoning Changes: Zoning ordinances regulate land use and development intensity within the Township. The Planning Commission is responsible for recommending zoning changes to the Township Board. This might include rezoning properties,
updating zoning maps, or amending zoning regulations to reflect evolving community needs and development trends.
4. Ensuring Public Involvement:
Public participation is essential in the planning process. The Planning Commission ensures that community members have opportunities to provide input on planning and development issues. This includes holding public hearings, workshops, and meetings where residents can voice their opinions and concerns.
Fun fact: We follow the law on notices about agenda items, but the public is always welcome to every meeting. We love when a wide range of opinions are shared. Sign up on our website to receive meeting notices.
5. Advising the Township Board:
The Planning Commission serves as an advisory body to the Township Board, providing recommendations on planning and development matters. This includes advising on the adoption of new ordinances, changes to existing regulations, and approval of major development projects. The Township Board relies on the Planning Commission’s expertise to make informed decisions that benefit the community as a whole.
Fun fact: The Planning Commission is always advising, but at the end of the day, it’s the Board that determines what happens.
Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon Trustee
Spring Clean Up Recap
The Spring Clean Up event was a tremendous success, with a total of 149 tons of trash and metal recycled.
This effort significantly contributed to a cleaner community and showcased the township’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Fall Clean Up Dates are October 11 & 12, from 8:00am to 3:30pm
Discover What3words:
A LIFESAVING LOCATION APPLICATION
Imagine having a medical emergency while hiking or biking on a remote trail in Cannon Township, with no landmarks to guide help. This scenario happens often, and finding precise locations quickly is crucial. What3words is an innovative app that divides the world into a grid of
10’ x 10’ squares, each with a unique three-word address, making it easy to communicate exact locations even in remote areas. Simply download the app, get your precise location, and share it with emergency services for quick assistance.
Invasive Species/Wetland Committee
Summer is in full swing in Cannon Township. The Invasive Species and Wetlands Committee has been busy with volunteer workdays and launching the first-ever Youth, Summer Lingo, Bingo challenge. Thank you to those who have participated in the Bingo game so far. If you haven’t yet played, please download and print your card, the prize ice cream from CowLicks and a Cannon Township sticker.
Our committee is currently working on reviving the “Waterfest” event. This was once held in the late fall and allowed the community to participate in the sampling of our natural resources. If you participated in this event in the past and are willing to share details, please email me at cbalk@ cannontwp.org.
Cy Balk Trustee Chair
Horses and Chickens in Cannon Township
Cannon Township allows property owners whose properties are zoned RR or R-1 to have horses. For properties zoned RR, a minimum of two acres is required. Each property is allowed one animal per acre if under 10 acres. For properties over 10 acres, there is no restriction on the total number of animals. Properties zoned R-1 are required to have two and a half acres and are allowed one animal per acre if under 10 acres. Similarly, if the property is over 10 acres, there is no restriction on the total number of animals.
Along with horses, Cannon Township now has a chicken ordinance. Chickens are allowed within Cannon Township (except for lakefront properties in the LR and R-1 districts). Chickens must be kept in the rear yard within a secured coop and are allowed to roam within an area confined by a four foot fence. On Rural Residential properties, chickens are allowed to roam freely. However, roosters and guinea hens are not allowed on any properties.
The ordinance does not limit the number of chickens on lots greater than two acres in the RR District. Otherwise, the number of fowl permitted by the ordinance is as follows: (a) Six on lots less than one acre in area. (b) Twelve on lots greater than one acre but less than two acres in area. (c) Twenty-four on lots greater than two acres in area in zoning districts other than the RR District.
Edmund Lockhart Zoning Administrator Assistant Planner
Employee Feature
ANNA MORRIS
If you’ve been in our Cannon Township Offices, you’ve probably been greeted by our newest receptionist, Anna Morris. Anna has been working for the Township just shy of a year. She brings a new perspective to our offices and has been a great addition to the team. Here are some fun facts about her.
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you came to work at Cannon Township?
My story of how I came to work at Cannon Township is very short and sweet. I have lived in Cannon Township my entire life and wanted to give back to our wonderful community. When this receptionist position opened, I didn’t skip a beat and, of course, I had to apply!
Are there any new skills or areas of expertise you’re looking to develop? Recently, I have taken on the responsibility of helping with our local cemeteries. I am really looking forward to learning more about this new opportunity and having a positive impact on Cannon Township residents.
What do you think sets Cannon Township apart from other workplaces?
I am very blessed to work with everyone here. At Cannon Township we work as a genuine team, and I think that is very hard to come by in a workplace.
What do you like to do in your free time?
When I’m not working, you can find me golfing, out on a boat, or taking my dog, Wrigley, on fun outdoor adventures. When the weather’s too cold, you can find me ice skating, skiing, or staying inside to watch a good movie.
Can you share a fun fact about yourself that your colleagues might not know?
When I was in high school, I played hockey!
What’s one interesting thing you’ve learned recently?
I recently learned how to ski! I went to Caberfae for the first time back in January, tried snowboarding, and let’s just say that wasn’t for me. But I grasped skiing almost immediately and have fallen in love with it!
From the Clerk’s Desk
ELECTIONS:
The State Primary Election is Tuesday, August 6, 2024. Polls are open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. Remember, this is a primary ballot, so you may vote for ONE POLITICAL PARTY ONLY. You cannot cross party vote or “split your ticket.” Voters may “split their ticket” in the November General Election, but NOT in August. Visit Michigan. gov/vote or Cannontwp.org to view a sample ballot and for more electionrelated information.
Early voting started July 27th and ends on August 4th. You can come to the Township Center and vote just like on election day, any day during that period from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. On election day, August 6th, you will vote at your regular precinct from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.
CEMETERIES:
Recently, Jerry Spitler, our cemetery conservator, retired from Cannon Township. His expertise will be greatly missed. As the Clerk, I understand it is my responsibility, so I will attempt to keep the ship afloat. Huge thanks to Anna Morris stepping up to help as well. If you have any questions, please call me at 616-8842297.
Cannon Township is in the process of cleaning up our cemeteries. If you visit, you will see many of the old overgrown trees and bushes that have been cut or pruned. We will get to the stumps this summer. At Old Bostwick Lake Cemetery on Ramsdell and Belding Rd, we cut down 66 red pine trees that were beginning to cause problems. The past two storms saw branches come down that damaged headstones.
We encourage families to visit their family plots in the cemeteries. Please remember you are not allowed to
plant anything on the plot. You may install an urn and plant flowers, but nothing that goes into the ground. If you leave behind knick-knacks, please remember you are responsible for them. If they get broken or faded and start to look unsightly, we will remove them. Patio stones, brick pavers, and stone borders are also not allowed as they interfere with mowing and can cause damage to headstones. If you have these items in the cemetery, please remove them so the Township does not have to.
Ben Franklin said, “Show me first the graveyards of a community and I will tell you the true character of the people.” Truthfully, I am a bit embarrassed by the condition of our cemeteries. They are getting better, but we have a long way to go. Please help us by following the rules and maintaining your families’ plots.
ROADS:
I also have the pleasure of planning and maintaining the Township’s roads. This year, Kitson is slated for repaving, which will happen around the first part of August. We are working with the Bostwick Lake Inn to improve stormwater runoff in that area and also will be paving the parking lot of the Township Park at the same time. Several other roads will get a “chip seal” coating to increase the life of the surface. If you have suggestions for roads that need to be considered, please let me know at jalles@cannontwp.org.
Trustee’s on the Town
Jim Alles Clerk
Pictured above is Trustee Betten with his family participating in the Bostwick Lake Boat Parade on the 4th of July.
Pictured Right is Trustee Balk and his wife Maria mountain biking on trails in Cannon.
Pictured above is Trustee Olson hiking in Cannon Township.
Pictured Left is Clerk Jim Alles sporting his patriotic attire.
Pictured above is Trustee Gutowski-Slaydon barefoot waterskiing on Bostwick Lake.
Business Brief
LAMOREAUX FARM MARKET AND COWLICKS
Lamoreaux Farm Market and Cowlicks opened in Cannon Township on May 20, 2022, and is owned by Jason and Maura Lamoreaux, along with their daughter, Shea. The market offers a wide variety of products year-round, including a full-service ice cream shop, Lamoreaux Farms’ direct beef, and locally sourced pork and chicken. You’ll also find pies, jams, local honey, salsa, novelties, candies, and craft sodas.
In season, they offer the freshest Michigan fruits, including strawberries, sweet cherries, raspberries, red tart pitted cherries, blueberries, peaches, apples, cider, and more.
Dates To Remember
When asked what their favorite thing about Cannon Township is, the Lamoreaux family answered, “Cannon Township features so much of what makes West Michigan an amazing place to live and raise a family. In addition to the beautiful lakes and homesteads, this Township is host to orchards and agriculture. There is community pride and an appreciation for locally grown foods. We feel fortunate to play a small role. We are thrilled to be a part of Cannon Township and welcome you and your family to come visit us!”
Visit their location at 6051 Belding Road.
For additional meeting dates, please visit the Township website at www.cannontwp.org. Please note that dates are subject to change.
Here To Serve You
Cannon Township Center
6878 Belding Road, Rockford, MI 49341
Main Office: 616-874-6966
Zoning Administrator: 616-884-2206
Steve Grimm Supervisor
sgrimm@cannontwp.org
• Fire & Law Enforcement
• Sewer
• Communications
• Personnel
• Finance
• Elections
David Spencer Treasurer
dspencer@cannontwp.org
• Finance
• Personnel
• Parks & Rec
• Elections
• Rockford Area
Foundation Rep
Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon Trustee
jslaydon@cannontwp.org
• Planning Commission
• Communications
• Invasive Species/Wetlands
• GVMC Transportation Rep
Jim Alles Clerk
jalles@cannontwp.org
• Elections
• Personnel
• Cemetery
• Fire & Law Enforcement
• Facilities
• GVMC Rep
Todd Olson Trustee
tolson@cannontwp.org
• Parks & Rec
• Facilities
Henry Betten Trustee
hbetten@cannontwp.org
• Zoning Board of Appeals
• Sewer
Cy Balk Trustee
cbalk@cannontwp.org
• Parks & Rec
• Invasive Species/Wetlands
Cannon Township
6878 Belding Road
