Cannon Township Communicator - Winter 2025

SPRING 2025

Allocating Property Taxes Fired Up About Community Spirit in Cannon Township Fire Department Update Vehicle extrication

Sewer Update Treasurer’s Report Business Brief

True North Nutrition

Parks & Recreation and Facilities Home Occupations Clerk’s Corner

Elections, Cemeteries, Roads

Invasive Species and Wetlands

CANNON TOWNSHIP COMMUNICATOR

Contents 2 From The Supervisor 3 Zoning Update 3 Treasurer’s Report 4 Invasive Species and Wetlands 5 Clerk’s Corner 6 Business Brief

The Cannon Communicator is published quarterly for $1.34 per issue by the Cannon Township Offices, and it is mailed at presort postage rate.

The Cannon Communicator is published quarterly and dedicated to sharing Township happenings condensing 3 months of news into just a few pages. To stay updated with the most relevant news in real time, subscribe to receive updates at www.

CannonTwp.org.

7 Understanding How Your Property Taxes Are Allocated in Cannon Township

12 Fire Department Update 13 Dates To Remember 14 Contact Information

Receivedtihgiistally! newsletter

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Coordinated by: Trustee Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon Edited by: Denise Vorgias Designed by: Bre McCarthy, Design by Bre, LLC Printed by: Kent Communications, Grand Rapids, Michigan

9 Parks & Recreation and Facilities Update 11 Fired Up About Community Spirit in Cannon Township

The Cannon Communicator PUBLISHED BY Cannon Township 6878 Belding Rd. Rockford, MI 49341 USA Phone: (616) 874-6966 E-mail: jslaydon@cannontwp.org

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SPRING 2025

From The Supervisor & Sewer Update In the Fall 2024 Cannon Communicator, we shared our proactive efforts over the last number of years to provide a sustainable wastewater collection system at the lowest life cycle cost. The summary highlighted the various projects undertaken and a couple of projects currently underway and planned. We also noted that the Township continues to budget/provide funding for future capital projects, operational costs, maintenance, and repairs, all while maintaining a healthy fund balance for emergencies.

So, how have we been able to achieve this outcome?

While the physical infrastructure is very important, we recognize that the financial stability and predictability of sewer rates is equally important. Thus, as part of these efforts we have been and continue to be intentional in how we approach the funding of the system. The Owners of the system, the users, provide the only revenue source to operate, maintain, and reconstruct the system. Therefore, a key aspect of the proactive approach is how to fund the system while balancing sewer rates. The financial tools we have at our disposal to manage the entire financial picture of the sewer system are rates, cash reserves, and debt.

In 2013, to evaluate the sewer system needs and subsequent financial needs, the Township began a study that looked at the risk of failure and consequence of failure for each system component. This included not only Cannon’s individual system, but those parts of the collection and treatment system that are shared with other municipalities and our ownership in the North Kent PARCC Side Clean Water Plant. Based on the study’s quantitative data, the Township identified several significantly needed sewer system improvements and developed a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to address the improvements.

• Build up cash reserves over several years and maintain a minimum 12-month cash reserve to address emergencies and to improve the Township’s credit rating should we ever need to seek bonding for a future project.

• Fund future capital, operation, and maintenance costs with cash to minimize new debt and associated rate hikes at the time of the project, providing more predictable and consistent sewer rates.

• Take on debt to fund immediate and urgent capital improvement needs.

In 2016, we took on debt as we started the process of constructing several urgently needed repairs. The debt payments will require greater funding in the second half of the 20-year repayment period. We identified this, calculated the needed overall rate to cover debt at a consistent level, and started placing additional funds in reserve to cover the debt payment without major rate adjustments. We also selected an implementation approach for the CIP which balances both system needs and financial limitations. The resulting approach is an annual 3% increase in rates to cover both debt and future system improvements. By chance, and interestingly, this rate adjustment approach is similar to the historical average rate of inflation. The net result is that the Township has implemented significant system improvements, built a cash reserve to cover our fiducial responsibility and pay off debt as it comes due, and continues to implement our CIP without significant rate jumps in sewer rates.

So, as you see, the sewer fund rise and fall in value with new projects large and small being undertaken, know that the Township is implementing an intentional plan to balance system needs, to provide the highest level of service at the lowest overall costs, and to maintain a consistent and predictable sewer rate.

With system needs and costs identified, the next step of the study was to conduct a financial review with our financial consultant to evaluate industry standards. Based on this work, the following approach to manage system finances was selected: Steve Grimm Supervisor

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CANNON TOWNSHIP COMMUNICATOR

Zoning Update

Cannon Township allows home occupations under Section 3.17 of the Zoning Ordinance. This Ordinance requires property owners and business operators to sign a document with the Township.

The agreement ensures the home occupation’s compliance with the required zoning conditions, and non-compliance could lead to the revocation of the business permit.

Under the ordinance, home businesses must be conducted entirely within the dwelling or approved accessory buildings, and can only be operated by residents and one non-resident employee.

The business cannot occupy more than 20% of the home’s floor space, and no external changes or signage are allowed to alter the residential appearance of the property.

Strict restrictions include no outdoor storage, limited commercial deliveries, and a cap on vehicle traffic (no more than 20 trips per day).

Parking restrictions may apply under the ordinance. The regulations aim to preserve the residential character of neighborhoods while allowing limited home-based businesses to operate in the RR District.

Edmund Lockhart Zoning Administrator Assistant Planner

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Treasurer’s Report A FRIENDLY REMINDER

The Treasurer’s Department has been assisting Supervisor Grimm in the preparation of the proposed 20252026 budget. The budget was adopted at the March 24, Cannon Township Board meeting. Cannon Township is in an excellent financial position. In addition, The Treasurer’s Department has balanced and settled with Kent County and others on whose behalf we collect taxes. On March 1, all unpaid 2024 tax obligations were transferred to Kent County. Those with unpaid balances will now need to call the Kent County Treasurer’s office with any questions and to make payment arrangements. They can be reached at (616) 632-7500.

Along with preparing for the Township’s annual audit, the Treasurer’s Department will be preparing the summer 2025 tax bills. The summer tax bills should arrive at your home the first week of July. The final date for the Township to receive your summer tax payment without interest /penalty is Monday, September 15, 2025.

Postmarks are not accepted, and we recommend that you allow extra time by mailing your payment at least two weeks in advance. In addition, allow extra time if you are using your bank’s Bill Pay services.

If your Cannon Township home is your primary residence, we recommend that you review your tax bill to make sure you are receiving the Principal Residence Exemption (PRE). If the PRE is in place, your annual tax savings are approximately 18 mills. There are two places on your tax bill to check to make sure the “PRE” is in place. On your tax bill you should see: % PRE/MBT:100% and Exempt next to your school district Operating Tax on your bill. If the PRE is not in place, please bring this to the Assessor or Treasurer’s attention, and we will arrange for the proper forms for you to sign.

As always, do not hesitate to contact the Treasurer’s office (616-884-2201 or 616-884-2202) with any questions or concerns.

David Spencer Treasurer

SPRING 2025

Invasive Species and Wetlands Committee Spring is in full bloom in Cannon Township! There is no better time of year to get outside and enjoy God’s beautiful creation.

Whether it is on your back porch or on the pickleball courts, there is no better way to kick cabin fever than being outside!

Back by popular demand, “Youth, Summer Lingo, Bingo” will be offered now through Labor Day weekend. Last summer we had many enthusiastic kids participate and learn new things about Cannon Township. Bingo cards can be downloaded from the Cannon Township website and also will be sent out in the summer tax bill. The Invasive Species and Wetlands Committee is excited to have added a grand prize winner in addition to a free ice cream cone. Each card will be entered into the drawing automatically, so make sure to have your kids and grandkids participate. For further details and rules, visit the Cannon Township website. Thank you in advance for your participation, and please email me at cbalk@cannontwp.org if you have any questions.

native species from growing. Once it flowers, the seeds rapidly spread all around. Hand pulling in the spring time is one of the more effective and easy ways to treat this invasive plant.

Once pulled, the safest way to dispose of the plant is putting it in a trash bag or burned. For more information check out the helpful flyer below for identification and other ways to treat it.

There will be more ways to volunteer this summer and learn more about our wetlands and the invasive species that are threatening our natural beauty. Please be on the lookout for other events that will be posted on Facebook and the calendar on the Township website.

An invasive species that is seen often in the early spring is garlic mustard. This plant grows early in the spring and blocks Cy Balk Trustee

Scan the QR code below to continue reading this Garlic Mustard article from the DNR:

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CANNON TOWNSHIP COMMUNICATOR

Clerk’s Corner FROM THE CLERK’S DESK By the time you read this, Spring should be in full bloom. With spring comes our first election of the year. Not many voters are impacted by this one, only those in the Forest Hills District, in Precinct #1. You will be voting on a millage question on May 6. We have temporarily moved your polling location to the Cannon Township Center. Post cards were sent to all affected residents. If you live in the Forest Hills District and are not registered to vote you may do so at the Township Center.

Township or the cemetery sexton.

There are rumors that we may have another millage vote in November, but nothing final on that yet. Stay tuned.

E. The cemetery sexton shall have the right and authority to remove and dispose of any and all growth, emblems, displays or containers that are determined to be unsightly, a source of litter, or a maintenance problem.

It is easy to stay up to date about election information with the State’s web site, https://www.michigan.gov/sos/all-services. At this site you can get on the absent voter list, register to vote, and check all sorts of information that the State has. It is always a good idea to ensure that your data is accurate and up to date.

ROADS Road projects this year are Blakely from Cannonsburg to 7 Mile Road. The KCRC will be grinding up the pavement and putting down new asphalt on this 1.15 miles of road. Total cost is $260,000 with the Township portion being 50% or $130,000. The other project is around Bostwick Lake. Davies Dr, Goldenrod Dr and Northport will all get new asphalt. This one has a total cost of $340,000, with the Township’s portion again 50% or $170,000.

Each fall we evaluate the condition of the roads in Cannon Township and determine which ones are the most in need of repair. If your road is getting in bad shape, don’t hesitate to call and let me know. There may be other roads that get a bit of attention as funds allow, but these are the ones in the plan.

One of the most frequent complaints I receive is that cars are “speeding on my road.” Our deputy is not able to be in all places, so please do your part and slow down. Be a good example to your children. A few seconds may save a life or avoid an accident. Please be a good neighbor and drive like your life depended on it.

CEMETERIES As the weather improves, we will begin once again to continue the maintenance of our cemeteries. Our volunteers meet just about every Thursday and spend the evening doing clean up and restoration. We will be cleaning up overgrown plantings and removing landscape features that are not supposed to be there. Any features that project beyond the gravestones is a hazard to the crews mowing and other monuments nearby. All of these will be removed this year. If you are uncertain of what you can do, here is the language from the ordinance.

A. No grading, leveling, or excavating upon a burial space shall be allowed.

B. No shrubs, trees, or evergreens of any type shall be planted.

Any of the foregoing items planted will be removed by the

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C. The Township Board reserves the right to authorize the removal or trimming of any tree, plant or shrub located within the cemetery in the interest of maintaining proper appearance and the use of the cemetery.

D. Mounds which hinder the free use of a lawn mower or other gardening apparatus are prohibited.

F. Landscape materials (i.e., bark mulch, stone) other than earth or sod are prohibited.

G. All refuse of any kind, including dried flowers, wreaths, papers, and flower containers, must be removed or deposited in trash receptacles located within the cemetery.

H. All flower arrangements and other grave decorations shall be removed by October 31, annually. Christmas decorations shall be removed by the following May 1, annually.

I. Lighting of any type is prohibited, except one solar light per monument is allowed year round.

J. Flags for veterans and flowers may be placed at the base of the columbarium. Nothing may be attached to the face of a columbarium niche.

The Township will place flags on veteran’s graves before Memorial Day each year. We have been asked by Post 102 American Legion to leave the flags on until after Veteran’s Day November 11.

CANNON TOWNSHIP IS LOOKING TO BUY BACK UNUSED CEMETERY PLOTS If you or someone you know has purchased plots in Cannon Township Cemeteries in the past and no longer intends to use them the Township will buy them back. Years ago, many families bought multiple plots because only one full burial could be done in each spot. Today with the number of cremations we allow up to two burials in each spot. For example you can have one full burial and one cremation or two cremains. As we develop the new cemetery, we wish to use the existing space as efficiently as possible. If you would like to check the plots that your family has, please visit the Township or contact Jim Alles 616-884-2207 or jalles@cannontwp.org, or Anna Morris 616-874-6966 or amorris@cannontwp. org.

Jim Alles Clerk

SPRING 2025

Business Brief TRUE NORTH NUTRITION

A HUB OF HEALTH AND COMMUNITY ON BELDING ROAD Nestled along Belding Road, just west of Ric’s and sharing a strip with Pizzeria Grande, Friends Furever, Melt Works, Ivy Physical Therapy and Bella Vista Eye Care, True North Nutrition has established itself as a beacon of positivity and an excellent source of nutrition. This vibrant spot is the brainchild of a dynamic motherdaughter duo, Jodie Trader and Justine Snoeyink, who envisioned a community gathering place free from alcohol.

True North Nutrition is not just any Herbalife club. It radiates a unique vibe accentuated by its bright pink and fuchsia hues— Jodie’s favorite colors— making it a haven for those who are fans of a bright and energetic atmosphere. True North Nutrition offers everything from loaded tea energy drinks and protein shakes to açai bowls. Their beverages blend nutrition and convenience, all while maintaining exceptional flavor.

The inspiration behind True North stems from a deeply personal place.

After Justine abruptly lost her husband, leaving her to raise their four children

alone, she needed a warm, cheerful, positive sanctuary to work. True North operates as a positive place where all are welcome and takes pride in the inviting atmosphere to let go and escape your troubles even if just for a moment.

Jodie says, “We want to be a safe place for anyone who needs a friend to talk to.”

Designed to foster community, the layout of True North Nutrition resembles a coffee bar complete with plentiful seating and a kids corner to keep the little ones entertained.

Beyond nutrition, the club is also a treasure trove of various items such as local candles, dried fruits, and to-go drink mixes or frozen açai bowls if you are pressed for time.

Congresswoman Hillary Scholten held a Town Hall at our Township and visited with business owner Alex Volkov from Acme Tire.

VISIT TODAY AND CONNECT WITH COMMUNITY To discover more about True North Nutrition, visit their store and experience the welcoming atmosphere firsthand. Whether you’re looking for a quick nutritious snack or a place to relax and unwind, True North is ready to welcome you. To learn more visit truenorthnutrition.org

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CANNON TOWNSHIP COMMUNICATOR

Understanding How Your Property Taxes Are Allocated in Cannon Township As residents of Cannon Township, understanding where your property tax dollars go is crucial for maintaining transparency and ensuring that taxpayer funds are used effectively. This article aims to provide a clear overview of how property taxes are distributed within the Township, utilizing data from the most recent fiscal year, 2023/2024.

Property taxes are a significant source of revenue for local governments, funding essential services that impact our daily lives. In Cannon Township, specific departments benefit directly from these taxes thanks to dedicated millages that ensure targeted funding.

FUNDED BY MILLAGES Two critical services funded by property tax millages in Cannon Township are the Fire Department and the Parks and Recreation Department. These millages are voter-approved and are specifically earmarked to fund operations and improvements within these departments, ensuring that our community remains safe and enjoyable.

ALLOCATION OF PROPERTY TAXES To give property owners a transparent view of how their taxes are being used, the Township maintains detailed financial records. For the fiscal year 2023/2024, we have utilized a spreadsheet that highlights the allocations in yellow. These highlights specifically show the portion of the property taxes that go directly to Cannon Township’s coffers.

The highlighted sections of the spreadsheet represent the direct financial input from property owners into our local infrastructure, from maintaining parks and recreational facilities to ensuring that our fire department is well-equipped and ready to respond to emergencies. This direct allocation helps us maintain the high standard of living that residents of Cannon Township enjoy and expect.

TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY As a Trustee of Cannon Township, I am committed to transparency and accountability. It is vital that residents understand not just the amount of taxes they pay, but also

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how these funds are utilized to improve and sustain our community. We believe that an informed community is an empowered community.

For those interested in a more detailed breakdown or who have specific questions about property tax allocations, we encourage you to reach out to the township office. Our staff is dedicated to providing clarity and support to all property owners and residents.

By maintaining open lines of communication and providing clear, accessible information, we can ensure that Cannon Township continues to be a place we are all proud to call home.

Your property taxes play a crucial role in shaping the community of Cannon Township. Through strategic allocations, we ensure that essential services are funded and that our community’s infrastructure meets the needs of its residents. We thank you for your contributions and continued support.

Sincerely, Henry Betten Trustee, Cannon Township This article is designed to simplify the complex topic of tax allocation and reassure residents that their contributions are being managed wisely. If you have any further questions or need more detailed information, feel free to contact the Cannon Township office.

Henry Betten Trustee

distributed.

The data used is the Fiscal year of 2023/2024 as that is the lates completed fiscal years data availaSPRING 2025 ble.

The Cannon Township Fire Department and the Parks and Recreation Department are funded by millages.

Taxes Cannon Township Fiscal Year 2023 - 2024

Total Summer/Winter Taxes $ 1,735,545.12 $ 6,295,973.80 $ 820,673.61 $ 431,128.89

Rockford Public School - Oper Rockford Public School - Debt Rockford Public School - Parks Rockford Public School - BLDG Grand Rapids Community College Kent Intermediate School District State Education Tax Kent County Oper LOWELL OPER LOWELL DEBT LOWELL BLDG

$ $ $ $ $ $ $

ADM - NSF (stands for Administrative Non-Sufficient Funds) Interest/Penalty (Mostly is passthrough money) CANNON OPER CANNON FIRE CANNON REC Kent District Library Kent County Jail Kent County Seniors Kent County Vets Kent Count Zoo Kent County Child Development Forest Hills Oper Forest Hills Debt Forest Hills Rec Special Assessments (Street Lights, Lake Drains/Weed Control, ect.)

Total

1,601,637.41 5,104,215.53 5,620,723.12 3,872,659.82 44,676.48 159,911.48 22,308.24

$ $ 31,475.49 $ 658,982.85 $ 1,313,904.54 $ 488,416.70 $ 1,022,996.09 $ 701,764.18 $ 464,984.47 $ 46,472.13 $ 391,135.97 $ 224,011.61 $ 12,553.42 $ 68,400.21 $ 11,096.35 $ 127,820.66 $ 31,273,538.17

On the spread sheet the areas highlighted in yellow shows the money that Cannon Township is allocated out of the Property Taxes paid in by the property owners of Cannon Township.

Henry Betten Trustee, Cannon Township

Spring Clean Up

May 2 & May 3 8:00am – 3:30pm Cannonsburg Ski Lodge

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CANNON TOWNSHIP COMMUNICATOR

Parks & Recreation and Facilities Update Hello Friends and Neighbors, Spring is finally here, and with it come many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors in our Township. Whether you love pickleball, hiking, biking, walking, swimming, fishing, or boating, you will find it all right here. As we all begin to spend more time outside, I have a few recreational updates to share.

PICKLEBALL COURT WINDSCREENS New windscreens have arrived for the pickleball courts in response to requests from residents looking to improve play on windy days. A big thank you to Tom Nyenhuis from Waterland Marine and Shore-Mate Waterfront Products for generously donating the funds to cover the cost.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to Amy Starr for coordinating the Ambassadors of the Cannon Courts, ensuring there is always a cooler filled with bottled water for players, and continuously working to improve the courts.

If you see Tom or Amy, be sure to thank them for their efforts in making our Township better.

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CANNON TRAIL EXPANSION Preliminary plans for the Cannon Trail expansion along Kies Street NE have been completed and submitted by the engineers to the Township. Lead engineer Scott Post is currently reaching out to landowners whose properties will be adjacent to the trail to review the plans with them. Once these discussions are complete and the plans are finalized, we will hold a public hearing to share the details with the community.

If the timeline stays on track, we tentatively plan to host this public hearing in late summer or early fall. Stay tuned for final confirmation as we get closer to the date. Our goal is to break ground in the second half of 2026 and complete the project before the end of the year.

BOSTWICK LAKE PARK REMINDER REGARDING PARKING A friendly reminder that parking at Bostwick Lake Park is for beach users only. To ensure fair use of the lot, vehicles parked in these spots without using the beach will be towed

by Nelson Towing at the owner’s expense. This lot will be patrolled by the Sheriff’s Department.

SPRING 2025

CANNON TRAIL REGULATIONS With the warmer weather, more residents will be using the Cannon Trail. I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of a few important rules. Last year, we approved the use of Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on the trail. However, Class 3 e-bikes, one-wheeled electric skateboards, electric scooters, and other motorized vehicles are not permitted. Please check the Township ordinance to ensure your e-bike meets the approved requirements. Anyone who is caught operating an unauthorized vehicle on the trail will be issued a citation from the Deputy Sheriff.

Class 1

EMERGENCY LOCATION In the event of an emergency on the Cannon Trail or in the wooded areas of our township, having a precise location can make all the difference for first responders. One of the best tools for this is the “what3words” app, which divides the world into small three-meter squares and assigns each a unique three-word address. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, opening the app and providing the three-word address to 911 dispatchers can help emergency personnel locate you quickly and accurately even in remote areas without clear landmarks. We encourage all trail users and outdoor enthusiasts to download the “what3words” app and familiarize themselves with how it works. It could be a lifesaving tool in an emergency.

Class 2

Class 3 TRAIL ETIQUETTE To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, here are a few reminders about proper trail etiquette. Cyclists should always communicate when approaching pedestrians from behind, using phrases like “On your left” or ringing a bell before passing. Riders should slow down when near walkers, especially in crowded areas, and allow plenty of space when passing. Pedestrians should stay to the right side of the trail and avoid sudden movements into the path of cyclists. If walking in groups, be mindful of leaving enough space for others to pass safely.

This is a great time to get outside and enjoy all the wonderful recreational opportunities our Township has to offer. I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable summer in the great outdoors!

Wishing you a life well lived in Cannon Township, Todd Olson

Respect and awareness go a long way in keeping our trails enjoyable for all. Cyclists should adjust their speed based on conditions, especially around children or pets.

Walkers should keep headphone volume low to stay aware of their surroundings. By following posted rules, yielding appropriately, and being courteous, both cyclists and pedestrians can safely share the trail.

Todd Olson Trustee

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CANNON TOWNSHIP COMMUNICATOR

Fired Up About Community Spirit in Cannon Township If you live in Cannon Township, chances are you’ve instinctively said “Rockford” when someone asks where you live. That’s understandable—Cannon shares a school district with Rockford, and most of our mailing addresses default to it as well. But here’s the thing: while Rockford is home to around 6,000 residents, Cannon Township is more than twice that size, with over 14,000 people who call it home.

Our Township has a unique outlook on community—one that sets us apart. We have our own philosophy when it comes to planning, managing growth, and preserving what makes Cannon special.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE Last year, Cannon Township updated its Master Plan—a guiding document that helps shape decisions about future growth and development. It’s not law, but it’s a strategic roadmap designed to ensure we serve our residents thoughtfully and sustainably.

During that process, community members shared what they wanted more of in the Township. In addition to preserving and protecting our beautiful trails and natural areas, the top requests were for: pickleball courts, a dog park, a splash pad, and a local coffee shop. These are the kinds of amenities that bring neighbors together and enhance our quality of life.

GROWTH VS. INFRASTRUCTURE One of the biggest challenges in community planning is balancing development with infrastructure capacity. Every potential project must be evaluated through the lens of: • Sewer and utility availability • Traffic flow and road capacity • Safety and environmental impact

of Transportation), which means we have no direct control over speed limits or traffic design.

Years ago, residents near Silver Lake requested that the speed limit be reduced from 50 to 45 mph. The Township Board at the time cautioned against requesting a traffic study, noting that such studies often result in speed limits being increased rather than reduced. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what happened—the limit was changed, but instead of dropping to 45 mph, it was raised to 55 mph.

This example shows why we take every decision in Cannon Township seriously. We don’t approve projects just because they sound good—we evaluate how they align with our longterm vision, our infrastructure, and, most importantly, the voice of our residents.

BUILDING PRIDE IN CANNON TOWNSHIP I believe most people in Cannon Township are incredibly proud to live here—we just need more opportunities to celebrate that spirit.

Kudos to our Township Clerk for launching a community design contest aimed at celebrating our local identity. You can learn more about it on page 13.

So, the next time someone asks where you’re from, say it loud and proud: “I’m from Cannon Township.”

But it’s not always black and white. Take roads, for instance— not all fall under Township jurisdiction. Belding Road (M-44), for example, is managed by MDOT (Michigan Department Jessica Gutowski-Slaydon Trustee

Visit The Museum

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The museum is wonderful to visit and is open May-September on Sundays from 2:00pm until 4:00pm. Or by appointment at 616-874-6966. Admission is free.

SPRING 2025

Fire Department Update Vehicle extrication is the critical process performed by emergency responders to safely remove individuals trapped in vehicles after accidents. This operation requires specialized tools, training, and a steadfast focus on safety for both the victims and rescuers.

This year the Cannon Township Fire Department had the opportunity to practice with different manufacturers and determine which tools would best help us enhance our current tool inventory. We are happy to report that we now have three new tools that will help us when time and safety are critical.

Modern vehicle extrication relies on a combination of mechanical and manual tools to handle the complexities of vehicle construction.

Key tools include: HURST RESCUE TOOLS • Cutters: Used to sever vehicle components like doors and roofs.

• Spreaders: Employed to pry apart vehicle structures, such as door frames or dashboards.

• Rams: Designed to push apart crushed vehicle sections.

ADVANCED STABILIZATION AND LIFTING EQUIPMENT • Low-Pressure High-Force Air Bags: These airbags are capable of lifting heavy objects and vehicles when other tools or methods are insufficient.

• Paratech Stabilizing Struts: Designed for quick deployment, these poles

are highly effective for vehicle stabilization in various scenarios.

• Auto-Cribbing Devices: These devices can be placed under a vehicle, and once deployed, they provide support from the underside by making contact with key structural points.

These new battery-operated tools are lighter and will allow us to bring the tool to the scene without worrying about the apparatus’s location.

Our cribbing remains essential in stabilizing the vehicle while we work on safely removing the patients.

Vehicle extrication is a demanding yet lifesaving process that combines technical expertise with a commitment to safety. By utilizing advanced tools, adhering to proven techniques, and prioritizing safety at every step, we can ensure successful outcomes in even the most challenging scenarios.

Ongoing training and the adoption of new technologies further enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of vehicle extrication efforts, ultimately saving lives and reducing the impact of traumatic accidents.

Until next time, stay safe.

James M. Morris Fire Chief, EMT

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CANNON TOWNSHIP COMMUNICATOR

Logo Contest The Clerk’s Office is hosting a Cannon Township Logo Contest! Please submit your ideas for a logo that could be used on shirts, merchandise etc.

Specifications are between 4 and 5 inches, multi color .jpeg file depicting the history, beauty, or some other feature of Cannon Township.

Submit entries and any questions to jalles@cannontwp.org.

Notice: Clean Water Action Canvassing in Cannon Township Clean Water Action, a national environmental organization focused on protecting clean and safe water, will be conducting door-to-door canvassing in Cannon Township through June 30, 2025. Their team will be active Monday–Friday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Canvassers will be informing residents about their campaigns and may ask for contributions, signatures, or other forms of support. All staff will carry official photo ID. This activity is protected under the First Amendment and does not require a permit. If you have any questions, please contact their office at (517) 203-0754.

Dates To Remember Date

5/2 & 5/3 5/3/2025 5/6/2025 5/12/2025 5/13/2025 5/19/2025 5/26/2025 6/9/2025 6/10/2025 6/16/2025 6/23/2025 7/1/2025 7/4/2025 7/8/2025 7/14/2025 7/21/2025 7/28/2025 7/31/2025

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Event

Spring Clean Up Absentee Ballots - Forest Hills Schools Special Election Forest Hills Schools Special Election Township Board Meeting Planning Commission Meeting Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Office Closed - Memorial Day Township Board Meeting Planning Commission Meeting Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Township Board Meeting Summer Tax Bills Mailed Office Closed - Independence Day Planning Commission Meeting Township Board Meeting Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Township Board Meeting Sewer Bills Due

Time

8:00am – 3:30pm 8:00am – 4:00pm 7:00am – 8:00pm 7:00pm 6:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 6:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm

6:00pm 7:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm

Location

Cannonsburg Ski Lodge Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center Cannon Township Center

For additional meeting dates, please visit the Township website at www.cannontwp.org. Please note that dates are subject to change.

SPRING 2025

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 and Wetlands • GVMC Transportation Rep

Todd Olson Trustee tolson@cannontwp.org • Parks & Rec • Facilities

cannontwp.org

@CannonTownship

@CannonTownship FireDept

@CannonTownship

Jim Alles Clerk jalles@cannontwp.org • Elections • Personnel • Cemetery • Fire & Law Enforcement • Facilities • GVMC Rep

Henry Betten Trustee hbetten@cannontwp.org • Zoning Board of Appeals • Sewer

Cy Balk Trustee cbalk@cannontwp.org • Parks & Rec • Invasive Species and Wetlands

14

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