Burt Township RECREATION PLAN UPDATE

Transcription

1 Burt Township RECREATION PLAN UPDATE Planning Commission Adopted: November 26, 2012 Township Board Adopted: December 6, 2012 With Planning Assistance Provided By: M. C. Planning & Design 504 Liberty Street Petoskey, MI (231)

2 Burt Township Recreation Plan Update Cheboygan County Michigan Prepared by: Burt Township Planning Commission/Recreation Committee Gary Street, Chair Members Robert Babcock Ann Baughman Gene Hodulik Matt Landon Adopted Planning Commission: November 26, 2012 Township Board: December 6, 2012 With Planning Assistance Provided By: M.C. Planning & Design 504 Liberty Street Petoskey, MI (231)

3 BURT TOWNSHIP RECREATION PLAN Update TABLE OF CONTENTS Title Page... i Table of Contents... ii Section 1. Community Description Administrative Structure Recreation Inventory Resource Inventory Description of the Planning and Public Input Process Goal and Objectives Action Program Appendix A: Public Input - Supporting Documents... A-1 Appendix B: Adoption Process Supporting Documents...B-1 Appendix C: Certification Checklist...C-1

4 SECTION 1 COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION Introduction Burt Township with its abundance of natural resources is enjoyed for its many recreational opportunities. While technically Burt Township is one standard geographic township in area, slightly more than half of the Township is water (Burt Lake). Burt Township is located on the western border of Cheboygan County, which is situated in the north central part of northern Michigan's Lower Peninsula, see Figure 1-1. Population According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the population for Burt Township in 2010 was 680 persons (336 male 344 female), averaging approximately 34.5 persons per square mile for the Township s 19.7 square miles of land area. This population density can be compared to approximately 36.5 persons per square mile for Cheboygan County and persons per square mile for the State of Michigan. Section 1- Community Description page 1-1 Burt Township Recreation Plan 2013 Update

5 In discussing the population for Burt Township, however, it is important to note that the figure presented by the 2010 Census does not reflect the actual number of persons residing in the Township during the summer months. This situation can be seen throughout much of northern Michigan. The Census tally, taken on April 1st, does not count residents who winter elsewhere. Respondents are asked to declare a permanent residence different from their April location, if more than six months are spent at the alternate address. However, many fail to do so for reasons of misunderstanding or for tax purposes. In reviewing the social and economic information derived from Census data, the figures presented for housing characteristics show 516 units or 60.4 percent of the total housing units as seasonal, recreational, or occasional use homes. With this in mind, it can be assumed that the Township's resident population may increase by as much as 60 percent or more during the summer months. Based on the average household size in Burt Township of 2.13, if the seasonal dwellings are occupied at the same rate, the expected seasonal increase would be an additional 1,099 persons. In addition, many summer visitors stay at private lodging places or at the homes of family or friends. Scenic Features The dynamic, year round views of Burt Lake from along its shoreline are another important asset to Burt Township. Development which occurs along the Burt Lake shoreline area is visible to many other property owners and boaters on the lake. Just as consideration is given to the impact of development on water quality, the impact of development on visual quality should be considered. In addition to Burt Lake, wooded areas, farmlands, streams and creeks, rolling topography, and historical structures are all important attributes found within Burt Township. Extensive panoramic views encompassing these features help create the pleasant rural and scenic character appreciated by residents and visitors alike. The high points in the Township are shown as Scenic Outlooks on the Recreational Opportunities Map of Existing Conditions (Figure 3-1). Recreation The recreation opportunities in the Township currently consist primarily of water-related activities (boating, fishing, swimming, etc) and trails for hiking, skiing, biking, as well as some trails for snowmobiling. There are numerous public access sites on Burt Lake within the Township that are well utilized both in the summer and winter seasons. An extensive network of trails in the Township utilize both public and semi-public lands, such as the State Forest land, the University of Michigan properties and the Little Traverse Conservancy properties. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) also maintains a boat launch and rustic campground on Maple Bay in the Township. In 2013, it is anticipated that the initial 5.1 miles of the Burt Lake Trail will be constructed from Maple Bay Campground to Hogsback Rd. When complete, the trail will be an 18-mile east/west connector between the Petoskey to Mackinaw City Trail (at Brutus) and the North Central State Trail (Gaylord to Mackinaw City) at Topinabee. The trail is planned to be a ten-foot wide crushed limestone pathway for non-motorized recreation. [See Township website for additional trail information] Section 1- Community Description page 1-2 Burt Township Recreation Plan 2013 Update

6 SECTION 2 ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE Administrative Structure and Funding in Burt Township Burt Township may establish a separate Parks and Recreation Committee in the future that oversees the general operation of the township parks and recreation programs. However, at the present time the Planning Commission is also serving as the Parks and Recreation Committee. This Committee will provide recommendations regarding park policies and projects to the Township Board. In 2010, the Burt Township Board approved the establishment of a Trail Committee to pursue the establishment of a non-motorized trail through the Township The Parks and Recreation Committee and Township staff will serve as a community sounding board on recreation matters, and bring the concerns of the residents to the Planning Commission and Township Board for consideration. Routine park maintenance is handled by the Township staff, contractors and volunteers, operating under the direct authority of the Township Board. The ultimate decision-making authority and responsibility for all park related projects resides with the Township Board. Volunteers will be an integral part of the recreation projects in Burt Township. While there is not a designated volunteer group, volunteers are solicited on a project by project basis to provide some of the labor for the Township in-kind match on projects as appropriate. For lake related projects, the Burt Lake Preservation Association (BLPA) is expected to be an active partner. The BLPA has a very active and committed membership and volunteer base. Relationships: This recreation plan covers Burt Township, while the Pellston School District serves Burt Township and the school district does not have any schools or facilities within the Township, the school district does utilize some of the public lands in Burt Township and thus are indirectly included in this plan. Burt Township will be working cooperatively with the Top of Michigan Trails Council to pursue the development of non-motorized trails and bike lanes, in order to most effectively develop local routes that connect with the larger trail system in northern Michigan. Cheboygan County adopted a recreation plan in January 2007, however the County Recreation Plan only covers those Townships that actively participated in the County planning process. A survey was published in the local newspaper for residents of the County to complete and send in. The response rate from Burt Township residents on the Cheboygan County recreation survey was quite low, and can not be considered representative. Burt Township is not covered in the County Recreation Plan. The Burt Township Recreation Plan does include provisions to continue and enhance the working relationship with University of Michigan Biological Station, the Little Traverse Conservancy and Michigan Department of Natural Resources as related to the state-owned recreation facilities located within Burt Township. Section 2 Administrative Structure page 2-1 Burt Township Recreation Plan

7 Table 2-1 Township Budget and Recreation Expenditures, Budget FY Ending March Recreation $25, $25, $25, Total Township $358, $430, $575, Expenditures Recreation $3, $10,167.33* $ (thru September 2012) Source: Burt Township Balance Sheets, *Additionally, $50, was paid out and then reimbursed for the trail related expenses through Top of Michigan Trails Council. Status Report of all Grant-Assisted Parks and Recreation Facilities This recreation plan is the second recreation plan prepared by the Burt Township separate from Cheboygan County. The Township has pursued and received a Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund grant to assist with the development of the initial phase of the non-motorized trail which is scheduled for construction in Additionally, matching grant funding for the trail project has been secured through the Michigan Department of Transportation. An earlier 1985 grant request was withdrawn. Details of the MDNR grants are listed below. Section 2 Administrative Structure page 2-2 Burt Township Recreation Plan

8 Public Input Prior to the start of the 2007 Recreation Plan, and as part of the master planning process approximately twelve public meetings and one public hearing were conducted. During the preparation of the Master Plan, an initial goal setting public input session was also held. Additionally, a citizen survey was sent to all property owners of the Township, see appendix A for the survey finding. The survey included a number of questions pertaining to recreation. The updated Recreation Plan was discussed at a series of public meetings over a period of approximately six months. A public hearing on the updated Recreation Plan was conducted on November 26, 2012, at the Burt Township Hall to provide an opportunity for comment on the recreation plan. The draft recreation plan was made available for review at the Township website or contacting the Recording Secretary. A public hearing notice were published on October 23, 2012, in the Straitsland Resorter, (see Appendix B), and posted at the Township Hall. The only public present at the updated Recreation Plan public hearing was the Township Supervisor. Comments were received regarding the lake access road ends, and as a result minor adjustments were made to inventory of road ends as presented in Table 3-2. Adoption Process The Burt Township Planning Commission serving in their capacity as the Burt Township Parks and Recreation Committee, held a public hearing on the Recreation Plan, after which the Planning Commission adopted the Recreation Plan on November 26, 2013 a copy of the hearing minutes and resolution of adoption are included in Appendix B. Recreation Plan adoption resolution The Recreation Plan was adopted by official resolution, by the Burt Township Board of Trustees on December 6, 2012 and a copy of the resolution is included in Appendix B. Transmittal to the Regional Planning Agency. The adopted plan was transmitted to the Northeast Michigan Council of Governments on February 20, 2013, a copy of transmittal letter is provided in Appendix B. Transmittal to the County Planning Agency. The adopted plan was transmitted to the Cheboygan County Planning and Zoning Department on February 20, 2013, a copy of transmittal letter is provided in Appendix B. Recreation Plan Certification A copy of the Recreation Plan Certification checklist is in Appendix C. Section 2 Administrative Structure page 2-3 Burt Township Recreation Plan

9 SECTION 3 RECREATION INVENTORY Inventory of Recreation Facilities in Burt Township An inventory of existing recreation facilities located in Burt Township is provided below. Sites are grouped according to jurisdictional ownership. Township owned facilities are listed first, then other public sites, and finally privately owned recreation sites. Each listing is followed by a brief description of that location. Figures 3.1 illustrate the location of the public sites. Burt Township owns one property, the Township Hall which is approximately four acres in size, and could be developed as a community park. Table 3-1 Facilities Owned and/or Operated By Burt Township Name Size Facilities Needs for ADA Compliance Burt Township Hall 4 ac (+/-) Accessible Township Hall with meeting room, with ADA accessible parking Met Township Lot On Crump Road near Burt-Mullet Road 4.5 ac Undeveloped, potential future site for trailhead ADA compliance needed when developed Table 3-2 Public Recreation Facilities in Burt Township Name Maple Bay State Forest Campground Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) Maple Bay Boat Launch Michigan Department of Natural Resources site on West Burt Lake. Map 3-1 Location Key A A B Facilities Park with 38 rustic campsites Vault restroom facilities Lake frontage on Burt Lake Fishing Boat Launch and associated parking Twp approval granted in January 2012 for improvements including double launch, redesigned and expanded parking and associated facilities. Undeveloped waterfront site. Section 3 Recreation Inventory page 3-1 Burt Township Recreation Plan

10 Road Ends* 1) Maple Bay Rd 2) Mundt Road 3) Indian Road 4) Roberts Road 5) Lawless Road 6) Mullet-Burt ( Hoppies ) 7) White Goose Drive 8) Numbers Road 9) Needles Road A C-# 1) Public access- boat launch improvements proposed (see Table 3-2) 2) Public access - suitable for shallow draft boats, expanded parking. 3) Public limited access 4) Public access - suitable for shallow draft boats 5) Public access - suitable for shallow draft boats 6) Public access - suitable for summer use, expanded parking 7) Public access - suitable for shallow draft boats 8) Public access - suitable for shallow draft boats 9) Public access - suitable for shallow draft boats * All road ends available for winter use Table 3-3 Quasi-Public Recreation Facilities in the Township Name University of Michigan Biological Station Property Little Traverse Conservancy Preserves Burt Lake Trail, (phase 1 to be constructed 2013) Facilities Trails--non-motorized (cross country skiing and hiking trails) Snowmobiling routes Trails non-motorized Trail -- non-motorized Section 3 Recreation Inventory page 3-2 Burt Township Recreation Plan

11 Section 3 Recreation Inventory page 3-3 Burt Township Recreation Plan

12 SECTION 4 RESOURCE INVENTORY Wetlands and Woodlands In addition to the scenic characteristics of woodlands, forested areas provide habitat for wildlife, protect the soil from erosion, and act as a buffer from noise on heavily traveled highways. Figures 4-1 and 4-2 shows the distribution of forested land within the Township. The forested and wetland areas which occur throughout much of Burt Township, some are under public, or quasi-public ownership, such as the property owned by the University of Michigan. Other of these lands are protected in land trusts or with conservation easements. The dominant forest associations in Burt Township are northern hardwoods (maple, beech and basswood), aspen and pine in the upland areas. In the lowland or wetland areas, common hardwood species include ash, elm and red maple. The common coniferous associations are cedar and tamarack in the wetlands. Fish and Wildlife Trout, pike, walleye, perch, bass, and bluegill are the primary species found in Burt Lake, creating good recreational fishing opportunities. Burt Lake fishery management strategy includes stocking and periodic surveying to assess the survival and growth of stocked species and status of fish populations. The lake is stocked periodically with lake sturgeon and rainbow trout by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). Additional stocking of walleye in Burt Lake is conducted by a private organization under permit with the MDNR. Habitat for populations of songbirds, wild turkeys, muskrat, mink, and raccoon are also provided by wetlands within the Township. Predominant mammal species found throughout Burt Township are fox, squirrel, rabbit, raccoons, porcupines, skunks, coyotes, deer and black bears. Bear are occasionally spotted in the Township. Additionally, the Michigan Monkey-flower is a endangered species both at the state and federal level, and the Hungerford crawling water beetle is a state listed endangered species, both of these species are found in Burt Township. Also, two threatened species, the bald eagle and osprey have been sighted in Burt Township. The following special concern bird species are known to nest in Burt Township: Cooper s hawk, northern goshawk, American bittern, red-shouldered hawk and common loon. Section 4 Resource Inventory page 4-1 Burt Township Recreation Plan

13 Section 4 Resource Inventory page 4-2 Burt Township Recreation Plan

14 Section 4 Resource Inventory page 4-3 Burt Township Recreation Plan

15 Other Protected Lands There are a growing number of parcels which have been donated to or purchased by the Little Traverse Conservancy. The Conservancy Preserve parcels are shown on the Protected Lands Map, Figure 4-3, and are protected from future development as public conservancy-owned properties. Additionally, Little Traverse Conservancy currently holds a conservation easement or similar instrument on four other private properties, (totally acres) in the Township. These privatelyowned properties are not shown on the map, but are protected due to specific development restrictions associated with their respective conservation easement to limit future development on the particular property. The University of Michigan owns extensive property (over 2,300 acres) primarily in the northern portion of Burt Township. While this land is considered semi-public, since the University allows residents use of the trails, it is not protected in any permanent manner. The Mackinaw State Forest land owned by the State of Michigan is open for public use, but as with other state-owned land it is not necessarily permanently protected. Section 4 Resource Inventory page 4-4 Burt Township Recreation Plan

16 Section 4 Resource Inventory page 4-5 Burt Township Recreation Plan

17 SECTION 5 DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING AND PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS Planning Process The Burt Township Recreation Plan is the second Township level recreation plan, and is an update of the previous township Recreation Plan adopted in Prior to 2007, Burt Township had not had its own township level recreation plan. The awareness of the benefits of a township level recreation plan, grew out of the master planning process and the associated citizen survey. Following the adoption of the Burt Township Master Plan, a new Zoning Ordinance was prepared and adopted, and then work began on a Township Recreation Plan early in Since that time, a dedicated Trail Committee has actively pursued the design and development of the initial phase of a trail that will ultimately connect between the North Central State Trail and the Petoskey to Mackinaw City trail. The Planning Commission, serving as the Parks and Recreation Committee has reviewed and considered draft portions of the updated recreation plan at three public meetings. The draft plan was posted on the Township website and made available for review. A public meeting was held on the proposed recreation plan on November 26, 2012, the minutes of which are included in Appendix A. Public comments were considered and the plan modified. The revised plan was adopted by the Burt Township Planning Commission on November 26, 2012 and by the Burt Township Board of Trustees on December 6, Community Survey The Burt Township Planning Commission, in association with M.C. Planning & Design, conducted a citizen survey during August of The survey was mailed to 904 property owner households. 349 surveys were completed and returned, for a return rate of 38.6 percent, which is considered a very good response rate for a mailed survey. Full details of the survey s results may be found in Appendix A. In 2012, the Burt Township Planning Commission reviewed the prior survey findings and found them to still be applicable for consideration in the updated Recreation Plan. Some survey findings highlights include: Approximately 35% of the respondents live in the Township year-round, with the remainder being seasonal. Of the seasonal respondents, the most common response for the amount of time they spend living in the township is 1-3 months (22% of all respondents). June, July, and August are the most popular months for seasonal residents to live in Burt Township, while January is the least popular. 68% of all respondents live on the waterfront, with about 50% of all respondents living there seasonally, while 17% are year-round lakefront residents. Approximately 33% of all respondents don t live on the water, with about 17% being year-round, and 16% being seasonal. Township services are generally considered to be adequate, with the level of agreement ranging by individual services. Section 5 Description of the Planning and Public Input Process page 5-1 Burt Township Recreation Plan

18 45% of respondents believe employment opportunities in the township are too dependent on seasonal and/or tourism business. Another 45% chose neutral/uncertain. In particular, 70% of respondents believe there are not adequate full-time employment opportunities in Burt Township. Almost 71% of non-waterfront property owners rate road ends and lake access to be the most important recreational priority. Millages proposed for paved pathways, recreation, and road end improvements run about 75% against, while the possibility of a millage to provide natural gas to the Township was about 54% against. The proposal for an annual fee to provide recycling services had a response rate of 54% in favor. Strong support exists for preservation of scenic views (84%), undeveloped shorelines (76%), and farmlands (72%). About 55% of all respondents believe growth should be planned and limited. Over 70% of all respondents consider farming to be an important or very important land use in the Township, with resort/tourism related business second with nearly 49% support. Mining (sand/gravel) is considered least important by survey respondents just over 14% support. SURVEY FINDINGS EXCERPT-- RECREATION (Very Important and Important responses combined) Road Ends/Lake Access Summer Use* 50.3% Parks 49.7% Hiking Cross Country Ski Trails 48.1% Bike Trails 44.7% Snowmobile Trails 38.3% Road End / Lake Access -- Winter Use** 35.3% *70.9% of non-waterfront property owners consider Road Ends/Lake Access Summer Use important (very important and important). **55.6% of non-waterfront property owners consider Road Ends/Lake Access Winter Use important (very important and important). Section 5 Description of the Planning and Public Input Process page 5-2 Burt Township Recreation Plan

19 Recreation priorities: Parks 40.00% 35.00% 30.00% 25.00% 20.00% 15.00% 10.00% All respondents Seasonal respondents Year-round respondents 5.00% 0.00% Very Important Important Neutral / Uncertain Unimportant Very Unimportant Very Important & Important Neutral Unimportant & Very Unimportant 49.7% 27.% 23.3% Would you support a millage for recreation? Yes 24% No 76% Recreational priorities: Road end lake access sites, summer use 35.00% 30.00% 25.00% 20.00% 15.00% 10.00% 5.00% All respondents Seasonal respondents Year-round respondents 0.00% Very Important Neutral / Uncertain Very Unimportant Very Important & Important Neutral Unimportant & Very Unimportant All Respondents 50.3% 20.5% 29.2% Off-water property owners 70.9% 20.5% 8.6% Section 5 Description of the Planning and Public Input Process page 5-3 Burt Township Recreation Plan

20 Recreational priorities: Road end lake access sites, winter use 35.00% 30.00% 25.00% 20.00% 15.00% 10.00% 5.00% All respondents Seasonal respondents Year-round respondents 0.00% Very Important Important Neutral / Uncertain Unimportant Very Unimportant Very Important & Important Neutral Unimportant & Very Unimportant All Respondents 35.3% 25.5% 39.2% Off-water property owners 55.6% 29.6% 14.7% Would you support a specific millage for road end improvements? Yes 24% No 76% Recreational priorities: Hiking and cross country skiing trails 45.00% 40.00% 35.00% 30.00% 25.00% 20.00% 15.00% 10.00% 5.00% 0.00% Very Important Neutral / Uncertain Very Unimportant All respondents Seasonal respondents Year-round respondents Very Important & Important Neutral Unimportant & Very Unimportant 48.1% 27.4% 24.4% Section 5 Description of the Planning and Public Input Process page 5-4 Burt Township Recreation Plan

21 Very Important & Important Neutral Unimportant & Very Unimportant 44.7% 29% 26.3% Would you support a millage for paved pathways within the road right-of-way along major roads in the Township? Yes 27% No 73% Recreational priorities: Snowmobiling trails 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% All respondents Seasonal respondents Year-round respondents 0% Very Important Neutral / Uncertain Very Unimportant Very Important & Important Neutral Unimportant & Very Unimportant 38.3% 28.7% 33.1% Section 5 Description of the Planning and Public Input Process page 5-5 Burt Township Recreation Plan

22 SECTION 6 GOAL AND OBJECTIVES The recreational goal and objectives presented below are the result of the Planning Commission master planning process, the public input received during that process, and the further refinement and expansion during the subsequent recreation plan development. Recreation Goal GOAL: Provide and maintain recreation lands and facilities for safe access and enjoyment by residents and visitors. OBJECTIVES: Create a waterfront Township park on Burt Lake. Establish legal agreements for bike and ski trail connections to publicly owned, semi-public and conservation areas within the Township. Continue to implement the Burt Lake Trail to provide a non-motorized routes along East Burt Lake Road and West Burt Lake Road. Continue to work with adjacent Townships to implement the portions of the Burt Lake Trail outside the Township to connect to the North Central State Trail and the Northwestern State Trail. Establish snowmobile connector routes, including trails linking to existing trail systems in Pellston and Mullett Township (west side of Mullett Lake). Develop non-motorized trails and designated bike routes, with supporting facilities (such as trailheads, parking and signage), to connect recreation areas in the Township, and provide connections to trail systems outside the Township. Work cooperatively with MDNR and Burt Lake Preservation Association to establish a safe swim area with buoys at Maple Bay. Locate a play structure in the vicinity of the Maple Bay Boat Launch and Maple Bay Campground, by working cooperatively with the MDNR. Maintain public lake access at existing road ends. Seek grant funding for park improvements. Section 6 Goals and Objectives page 6-1 Burt Township Recreation Plan

23 SECTION 7 ACTION PROGRAM The action program is presented below in two tables that describe improvements to existing facilities and the development of new facilities. Anticipated funding sources will be in the form of cash from the Township general fund, in-kind labor, and Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) grants. Sources of the grants are: Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF), Recreation Passport and other appropriate grant programs. Capital Improvements Schedule for Proposed Facilities New Facilities Year Activity/ Development Cost and Anticipated Funding Source Property Acquisition 2014 Acquire use of lakefront property for Township Park. [either MDNR owned site or other lakefront property] $ [under investigation] MDNR, MNRTF, Local grants and Township Lakefront Township Park ADA accessible parking, picnic area including grills, picnic tables and play structure. ADA accessible restroom facilities $100,000 MNRTF, Local grants and Township $65,000 MNRTF and Township Road Ends Improvements at: Mullet-Burt Road White Goose Bay $50,000 Road Commission and Township Maple Bay Boat Launch 2014 Enhance boat ramp and install a dock for the boat ramp at Maple Bay and improve parking. $ TBD MDNR, Waterways and local grants Multipurpose Non-motorized Pathways West Burt Lake Road-establish pathway in existing R.O.W. and provide supporting facilities. East Burt Lake Road-establish pathway in existing R.O.W. and supporting facilities. $ 1,000,000 MDOT, MDNR, local foundations/grants, Township and local residents. $[under investigation] MDOT, MDNR, local foundations/grants and township. Section 7 Action Program page 7-1 Burt Township Recreation Plan

24 Rationale for Lakefront Park: A large percentage of Burt Township is covered by Burt Lake, and while there are a number of access points via public road ends, the Township does not have a park on the lake. Burt Township would like to acquire and/or manage a lakefront property for development as a passive lakefront park for local use. Due to past history and a lawsuit concerning the MDNR property, if the Township is able to acquire or manage either this or other lakefront property, the future development of the property would include some specific conditions / limitations such as: No dredging or boat launch No dock Parking area isolated from waterfront Day use only establish park hours Buffering of adjacent properties possibly with fence and trees Limited Development which might include restroom facility, picnic tables, picnic shelter, playground equipment, swimming area with signage and buoys. Rationale for Road End Improvements: Many of the Township residents who access Burt Lake do so via one or more of the road end access sites. Currently parking is problematic during the busier times. Rationale for New Trails: There is a need and interest to provide non-motorized pathways throughout the Township including along both sides of Burt Lake, as well as to link to the University of Michigan Biological Station and the MDNR campground at Maple Bay and ultimately to connect into a regional trail system. The safest trails for pedestrians and bicyclists are trails which are separate from the vehicular routes. Trails throughout northern Michigan are used extensively both by local residents and tourists. Section 7 Action Program page 7-2 Burt Township Recreation Plan

25 Appendix A Recreation Plan Public Input Supporting Documents

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27 Appendix B Recreation Plan Adoption Process Supporting Documents

28 MINUTES OF BURT TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARINGS AND MEETING November 26, 2012 The Burt Township Planning Commission Public Hearings were called to order by Chair, Gary Street, on November 26, 2012, at 7 p.m. at the Burt Township Hall, 7029 Birchwood Road, Cheboygan, Michigan. Members present: Gary Street (Chair), Ann Baughman (Vice-Chair), Matt Landon, Bob Babcock, and Gene Hodulik. Also attending: Mary Campbell, Dan Swantek, Harold Koviak and Joyce Hutto-Nolan (Recording Secretary). Notice of Public Hearings and Meeting Notice of the public hearings and meeting was published in the Straitsland Resorter on October 23, 2012, and posted on the Burt Township website. Public Hearing Number 1 Amendment to the Burt Township Zoning Ordinance - Recovery of Attorney Fees Gary Street said this proposed amendment to Section of the Burt Township Zoning Ordinance will allow the township to recover township costs and attorney fees if taken to court. Public Comment Harold Koviak said a Cheboygan County Judge had not allowed Burt Township to recover its attorney fees because the Burt Township Zoning Ordinance did not include a provision permitting the township to recover attorney fees. No correspondence concerning the zoning amendment was received. Public Comment Period Closed Planning Commission Discussion No Planning Commission discussion. Motion Moved by Ann Baughman and seconded by Matt Landon to recommend approval of the attached amendment to Section of the Burt Township Zoning Ordinance to the Burt Township Board and to Cheboygan County. Roll Call Vote Baughman yes; Landon yes; Babcock yes: Hodulik yes; Street - yes Motion unanimously approved 1

29 Public Hearing Number 2 Updated Recreation Plan Mary Campbell reviewed the additions and revisions to the updated Burt Township Recreation Plan. Board members discussed road ends. Indian Road and Numbers Road road ends will be added as public access road ends. Public Comment No Public Comment No correspondence concerning the updated Burt Township Recreation Plan was received. Public Comment Period Closed Planning Commission Discussion No Planning Commission discussion. Motion Moved by Ann Baughman and seconded by Matt Landon to recommend approval of the updated Burt Township Recreation Plan to the Burt Township Board with Indian Road and Numbers Road being added as public access road ends. Roll Call Vote Baughman yes; Landon yes; Babcock yes; Hodulik yes; Street - yes Motion unanimously approved Planning Commission Resolution of Adoption and Recommendation to Township Board for Adoption Mary Campbell gave each board member a copy of Resolution # PC 1 of Motion Moved by Ann Baughman and seconded by Bob Babcock to adopt the attached Resolution # PC 1 of Roll Call Vote Baughman-yes, Landon-yes, Babcock-yes, Hodulik-yes, Street-yes Motion unanimously approved Public Hearings adjourned at 7:25 p.m 2

30 Regular Planning Commission Meeting The Burt Township Planning Commission regular meeting was called to order by Chair, Gary Street, on November 26, 2012, at 7:25 p.m. Approval of minutes of October 15, 2012 Moved by Matt Landon and seconded by Bob Babcock to approve the Planning Commission Minutes of October 15, 2012, as published with the following changes to the first sentence on page 1 of the paragraph regarding Attorney Fee Recovery Amendment: Ann Baughman said that on April 16, 2012, the Planning Commission presented a draft recommended approval of the Attorney Fee Recovery Amendment by to the Burt Township Board. Motion unanimously approved New Business Request by DNR Regarding Renewal of the Maple Bay Boating Access Site Improvement Gary Street received a letter from Keith Cheli requesting a one year extension of the Burt Lake Maple Bay Boating Access Site Improvement. Election of Officers for 2013 Motion Moved by Gene Hodulik and seconded by Matt Landon to elect Gary Street as Chair and Ann Baughman as Vice-Chair for Roll Call Vote Baughman yes; Landon yes; Babcock yes; Hodulik yes; Street yes Motion unanimously approved Meeting Dates for 2013 Moved by Matt Landon and seconded by Gene Hodulik to approve the following dates and times for the Burt Township Planning Commission Meetings for 2013: January 14 7 p.m. March 18 7 p.m. May 20 7 p.m. July 15 7 p.m. September 16 7 p.m. November 18 7 p.m. Motion unanimously approved Public Comment Gene Hodulik asked about the portable storage structures. Dan Swantek said he gave a property owner a copy of the Burt Township Zoning Ordinance with the regulations for temporary or portable structures and the property owner said he will comply with the regulations. 3

31 Harold Koviak said the term of Planning Commission member Matt Landon will expire in 2012, the terms of Gene Hodulik and Ann Baughman will expire in 2013, and the terms of Gary Street and Bob Babcock will expire in Motion Moved by Bob Babcock and seconded by Gene Hodulik to adjourn. Motion unanimously approved Meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m. Joyce Hutto-Nolan, Recording Secretary. 4

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33 DRAFT BURT TOWNSHIP MINUTES DECEMBER 6, 2012 PAGE 1 BURT TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING December 6, 2012 The Oath of Office was taken by Harold Koviak, Supervisor, Shirley Reimann, Treasurer, Arthur Pillen II, Trustee, Eugene Hodulik, Trustee, and Donna McDougall, Clerk. Edward Reimann will take the Oath at a later date. The regular meeting of the Burt Township Board was called to order by Supervisor Harold Koviak on December 6, 2012, at 2:05 pm at the Burt Township Hall, 7029 Birchwood Road, Cheboygan Michigan ATTENDANCE: Harold Koviak, Shirley Reimann, Arthur Pillen, Eugene Hodulik, Donna McDougall ABSENT: NONE GUESTS: None AGENDA: Koviak Additions New Business : 1) Board of Review Member Terms 2) Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals 3) Depositories 4) Township Attorney 5) Township Credit Card Deletions None Public Comment on Agenda: None Public Comment: None Minutes: November 2, 2012 MOTION: Moved by Hodulik supported by Pillen to approve the minutes of November 1, 2012, as published. MOTION APPROVED Bills MOTION: Moved by Pillen, supported by Hodulik to pay the bills. MOTION APPROVED OLD BUSINESS Township Hall Parking Area Koviak Robiadek & Sons Excavating withheld $6,500 from their bill for additional paving to be done next spring. Dan Ulrich from NDG has volunteered to design a landscaping plan without charge.

34 DRAFT BURT TOWNSHIP MINUTES DECEMBER 6, 2012 PAGE 2 NEW BUSINESS Recreation Plan - Koviak The Public Hearing for the Recreation Plan Update was held on November 26, Harold Koviak was the only guest. Updated was the Burt Lake Trail, census and road end information with the addition of Needles and Numbers Roads. The plan would like the Township to include a lakefront park. A new survey will be completed before the next Master Plan update. MOTION: Moved by Hodulik, supported by Pillen to adopt the Burt Township Recreation Plan Resolution as presented. (Burt Township Resolution No ) Roll call vote taken: Reimann yes; Pillen yes; Hodulik yes; McDougall yes; Koviak yes UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED Planning Commission Hodulik 1) The DNR has requested the Planning Commission to approve a one (1) year extension for Maple Bay Boating Access Site Improvement Plan from the date of the original site approval. They would like to be placed on the Agenda for the January Planning Commission meeting. 2) Next Planning Commission meeting is January 14, 2013 Property Split Koviak Koviak presented the application from Mary Campbell prepared for James Covault to split parcel number located in Section 35 of the Township (T36N-R3W) located on Burt Lake with road frontage on Stratford Lane. Mary Campbell determined that the proposed split meets the requirements of both the land Division Act, as amended, as well as the Burt Township Zoning Ordinance and recommended that the Board approve the split. MOTION: Moved by Hodulik, supported by Pillen to approve the property split for James Covault as presented and recommended by Mary Campbell. MOTION APPROVED Burt Lake Trail Pillen The Burt Lake Trail has a fund balance of $60,000-$65,000. Income to date is $154, $4,000 was received from the Petoskey-Harbor Springs Community Foundation. Two easements are still needed and Larry Fox from C2AE is working on this. Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals Koviak The policy of having the chair of the Planning Commission also be a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals has been key to the continuity of both boards. Thus, it is the recommendation of the Supervisor to make this policy a requirement. MOTION: Moved by Pillen, supported by Hodulik to require the chair of the Planning Commission to also be a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals. MOTION APPROVED Board of Review Koviak

35 DRAFT BURT TOWNSHIP MINUTES DECEMBER 6, 2012 PAGE 3 The current term for the Board of Review members: Rene Kinney, Bert Ebbers, and Edward Reiman, expires on December 31, MOTION: Moved by Koviak, supported by Hodulik to renew the term of the Board of Review members Rene Kinney, Bert Ebbers and Edward Reimann for two (2) years to expire December 31, MOTION APPROVED Koviak noted that he is still seeking an alternate for the Board of Review. Depository of Township Accounts Koviak MOTION: Moved by Pillen, supported by Hodulik to renew the depository of Township Bank Accounts with PNC Bank and Citizens Bank for MOTION APPROVED Township Attorney Koviak MOTION: Moved by Pillen, supported by Hodulik to continue with Timothy MacArthur, Attorney at Law for Burt Township for MOTION APPROVED Credit Card McDougall McDougall requested the Board to consider a credit card for Township Board use as software updates and orders for checks require credit card payment. MOTION: Moved by Hodulik, supported by Pillen to approve application of a Township Board credit card. MOTION APPROVED Upcoming Meetings: - Zoning Board of Appeals December 7, :00 pm - Board of Review December 11, :00 pm - Board Meeting January 3, :00 pm - Planning Commission January 14, :00 pm MOTION: Moved by Hodulik, supported by Pillen to adjourn. MOTION APPROVED Adjourned at 2:50 pm Respectfully submitted, Donna McDougall, Clerk

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37 M. C. Planning & Design Community Planning Site Planning Landscape Architecture Letter of Transmittal If transmitted items are not as noted, notify writer immediately. To: Attn: RE: Cheboygan County Planning & Zoning Dept. 825 South Huron, Suite 2 Cheboygan, MI Steve Schnell, Community Development Dir. Burt Township Recreation Plan Date: February 20, 2013 Transmitted By: Regular Mail Overnight Delivery Hand Delivered Picked Up By: X Other: We are transmitting 1 copy(s) of the following: Certification for Payment No. Discs Prints Specs. Change Order No. Drawings Product Literature Tracings Construction Change Req. No. Field Measure Plans Samples Work Orders No. Copy of Letter Plans Shop Drawings X Other: Adopted Recreation Plan Burt Township For your: Action As Requested Information Review/Comment Use Approval Distribution X Records /Files Signature Remarks: Attached please find a copy of the Burt Township Recreation Plan. This Recreation Plan has been prepared to meet the DNR guidelines. As you are aware one of the DNR requirements is that a copy of the adopted Recreation Plan must be transmitted to the County. If you would like a hard copy sent, please contact my office. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Job No. BRT By: cc: Mary H. Campbell, ASLA, AICP Gary Street, Burt Township Planning Commission Chair Joyce Hutto, Township Planning Commission Recording Secretary Donna McDougall, Burt Township Clerk 504 Liberty Street Petoskey, MI Phone: (231) Fax (231) mcampbell@mcplanningdesign.com

38 M. C. Planning & Design Community Planning Site Planning Landscape Architecture Letter of Transmittal If transmitted items are not as noted, notify writer immediately. To: Attn: RE: Northeast Michigan Council of Governments P.O. Box n Livingston Blvd. Suite 8 Gaylord, MI Diane Rekowski, Executive Director Burt Township Recreation Plan Date: February 20, 2013 Transmitted By: Regular Mail Overnight Delivery Hand Delivered Picked Up By: X Other: We are transmitting 1 copy(s) of the following: Certification for Payment No. Discs Prints Specs. Change Order No. Drawings Product Literature Tracings Construction Change Req. No. Field Measure Plans Samples Work Orders No. Copy of Letter Plans Shop Drawings X Other: Adopted Recreation Plan Burt Township For your: Action As Requested Information Review/Comment Use Approval Distribution X Records /Files Signature Remarks: Job No. Attached please find a copy of the Burt Township Recreation Plan. This Recreation Plan has been prepared to meet the DNR guidelines. As you are aware one of the DNR requirements is that a copy of the adopted Recreation Plan must be transmitted to the Regional Planning Agency. If you would like to receive a hard copy of this plan, please contact my office. Thank you for your attention to this matter. BRT By: cc: Mary H. Campbell, ASLA, AICP Gary Street, Burt Township Planning Commission Chair Joyce Hutto, Township Planning Commission Recording Secretary Donna McDougall, Burt Township Clerk 504 Liberty Street Petoskey, MI Phone: (231) Fax (231) mcampbell@mcplanningdesign.com

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40 DRAFT BURT TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING March 7, 2013 Page 1 BURT TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING March 7, 2013 The regular meeting of the Burt Township Board was called to order by Supervisor Harold Koviak on March 7, 2013, at 2:00 pm at the Burt Township Hall, 7029 Birchwood Road, Cheboygan Michigan ATTENDANCE: Harold Koviak, Shirley Reimann, Arthur Pillen, Eugene Hodulik, Elmira Weaver, Deputy Clerk ABSENT: Donna McDougall, Excused GUESTS: Sue and Dennis Budzinski, James Larsen, Fred Lindroth, Linda Socha, Dan Swantek, Carolyn and Iver Thornburg, AGENDA: Koviak Additions Line Item Changes in the Budget Transfer of funds from General Fund to Liquor Fund Set a date for the Public Hearing for the Budget Fire Report Iver Thornburg Deletions None Public Comment on Agenda: None Public Comment: 1) Dennis Budzinski was concerned about road-ends in Burt Township and whether Burt Township will obtain ownership when the Cheboygan County Road Commission releases them. Supervisor Koviak reported he attended a meeting of the Road Commission and expressed interest in obtaining township ownership of the road-ends. 2) Several people congratulated Harold Koviak on his appointment as a State Director representing Cheboygan, Emmet and Charlevoix Counties of the Michigan Townships Association. Minutes: January 3, 2013 MOTION: Moved by Pillen, supported by Hodulik to approve the minutes of January 3, 2013, as published. MOTION APPROVED Bills MOTION: Moved by Hodulik, supported by Pillen to pay the bills. MOTION APPROVED OLD BUSINESS None

41 DRAFT BURT TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING March 7, 2013 Page 2 NEW BUSINESS: Poverty Exemption Guidelines (Board of Review) Fred Lindroth, assessor, presented new poverty exemptions guidelines for Michigan Assessors from the Michigan State Tax Commission. MOTION: Moved by Pillen, supported, by Hodulik, to approve new poverty guidelines for Burt Township to include asset exemption of the homestead for which the exemption is claimed plus ten (10) contiguous acres of property, and one (1) motor vehicle. Additionally, the total current fair market value of the claimant s household assets cannot exceed $5, MOTION APPROVED Burt Township Recreation Plan Due to changes in notification requirements for the Burt Township Recreation Plan adopted on December 12, 2012, posting of public notice and re-affirmation of the Plan was necessary. A notice was placed in the Cheboygan Tribune on February 28, 2013, announcing possible action on the Plan. MOTION: Moved by Hodulik, supported by Pillen to re-affirm and re-adopt the Burt Township Recreation Plan (Resolution ) Roll Call Vote taken: Hodulik - yes; Pillen yes; Reimann yes; Koviak yes Absent: McDougall MOTION UNIMOUSLY APPROVED Burt Lake Trailhead MOTION: Moved by Pillen, supported by Hodulik to support a resolution in Support of the Burt Lake Trailhead at the Chaboiganing Nature Preserve and University of Michigan s Colonial Point Preserve located on Brutus Road and to support application for the Recreation Passport Grant Application fund this site. (Resolution ) Roll Call Vote taken: Hodulik yes; Pillen yes; Reimann yes; Koviak yes Absent: McDoguall MOTION UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED MTA Educational Conference Koviak reported on the MTA Conference that was attended by Pillen, McDougall and himself in January. There were forums related to various topics and concerns of township boards. The attendees felt it was beneficial for the governing of the township. Burt Lake Trail Pillen reported on the progress of the trail and that work will be started in the spring. Planning Commission Hodulik reported on the approval for recovering attorney fees when incurred while processing violations of the Burt Township Ordinance. The Planning Commission extended the DNR

42 DRAFT BURT TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING March 7, 2013 Page 3 Permit for the Maple Bay Improvement project. The boat launch will be closed in the spring until mid-july while work is in progress. Hodulik also reported that a township survey will be conducted this year. Up North Prevention The Up North Prevention group requested Burt Township to approve a resolution to better control and prevent the supplying of alcohol to minors. MOTION: Moved by Hodulik, supported by Koviak to support the resolution. (Resolution ) MOTION APPROVED Pellston Fire Department Iver Thornburg presented a list of fire calls made to Burt Township for the period from January 2012 to October He also reported that they are training youth in the area to be future firefighters Budget MOTION: Moved by Pillen, supported by Hodulik to make the following changes: Increase Deputy Clerk from $1,500 to $2,500 Increase Election from $2,000 to $4,000 Decrease - Planning & Zoning from $40,000 to $37,000 Increase Township Hall from $35,000 to $41,000 Decrease Public Improvement from $5,000 to $2,000 Decrease Sanitation from $50,000 to $47,000 Increase MTA Convention from $4,000 to $4,300 Decrease Township Board from $4,500 to $4,200 Increase Cemetery from $6,000 to $6,060 Decrease Insurance from $6,000 to $5,040 MOTION APPROVED Liquor Fund MOTION: Moved by Pillen, supported by Hodulik to transfer $400 from the General Fund to the Liquor Fund. MOTION APPROVED Public Hearing on the Budget MOTION: Moved by Hodulik, supported by Koviak to hold a Public Hearing for the Budget on April 4, 2013, at 1:30 PM. MOTION APPROVED MOTION: Moved by Hodulik, supported by Pillen to adjourn. MOTION APPROVED

43 DRAFT BURT TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING March 7, 2013 Page 4 Meeting adjourned at 3:00 pm. Respectfully submitted, Elmira Weaver, Deputy Clerk

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45 Appendix C Recreation Plan Certification Checklist

46 APPENDIX H. COMMUNITY PARK, RECREATION, OPEN SPACE AND GREENWAY PLAN CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST Michigan Department of Natural Resources-Grants Management COMMUNITY PARK, RECREATION, OPEN SPACE, AND GREENWAY PLAN CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST By Authority of Parts 19, 703 and 716 of Act 451, P.A. 1994, as amended, submission of this information is required for eligibility to apply for grants INSTRUCTIONS: Complete, obtain certification signatures and submit this checklist with a locally adopted recreation plan. All recreation plans are required to meet the content and local approval standards listed in this checklist and as outlined in the Guidelines for the Development of Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plans provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). To be eligible for grant consideration, plans must be submitted to the DNR prior to the grant application deadline with a completed checklist that has been signed by an authorized official(s) of the local unit of government(s) submitting the plan. Name of Plan: PLAN INFORMATION List the community names (including school districts) covered by the plan County Month and year plan adopted by the community s governing body PLAN CONTENT INSTRUCTIONS: Please check each box to certify that the listed information is included in the final plan. 1. COMMUNITY DESCRIPTION 2. ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE Roles of Commission(s) or Advisory Board(s) Department, Authority and/or Staff Description and Organizational Chart Annual and Projected Budgets for Operations, Maintenance, Capital Improvements and Recreation Programming Current Funding Sources Role of Volunteers Relationship(s) with School Districts, Other Public Agencies or Private Organizations Regional Authorities or Trailway Commissions Only Description of the Relationship between the Authority or Commission and the Recreation Departments of Participating Communities Articles of Incorporation 3. RECREATION INVENTORY Description of Methods Used to Conduct the Inventory Inventory of all Community Owned Parks and Recreation Facilities Location Maps (site development plans recommended but not required) Accessibility Assessment Status Report for all Grant-Assisted Parks and Recreation Facilities 4. RESOURCE INVENTORY (OPTIONAL) 5. DESCRIPTION OF THE PLANNING PROCESS Page 29 IC 1924 (Rev. 02/05/2009)

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